Almost 70,000 people with mental health issues were given employment support last year as part of the NHS Talking Therapies Programme – up nearly two-thirds on the year before, latest figures show.
News
More people with mental health issues are seeking employment advice, new data shows
NHS Talking Therapies help people who struggle with their mental health, such as anxiety or depression.
As part of the programme, patients can be linked up with their own employment advisor who support tasks like job searching, writing CVs, interview preparation, considering workplace adjustments for disabilities, and setting objectives.
A total of 67,794 people accessed the programme last year, compared to 41,907 in the previous 12 months – a rise of 62 per cent.
More people with mental health issues are seeking work through the NHS Talking Therapies service than previously. Photograph: iStock
NHS National Director for Mental Health, Claire Murdoch, said: “The NHS has heard for many years from patients struggling with their mental health that working and having a purpose can have a hugely positive impact.
“This is why I’m thrilled that NHS staff have helped more than 67,000 mental health patients with employment advice, because for many, having the right job and support is crucial in their mental health journey.”
Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, Liz Kendall, added: “Good work is good for people’s health and wellbeing.
“With more people in well paid, secure work, we will boost living standards and get the economy growing.”
Over a third, or 37 per cent of claims for financial support (benefits) for those of working age are now primarily for mental health conditions, according to Institute for Fiscal Studies.
While young people are much more likely to claim for mental health reasons, there has been a ‘substantial shift’ towards claims for these conditions at all ages, it says.
ONS analysis has found that NHS Talking Therapies can improve monthly pay prospects while also boosting the chance of employment.
More about NHS Talking Therapies here
NEWS

Safety leader and research group launches mental health in construction consultation
By Belinda Liversedge on 03 October 2025
The Construction Leadership Council (CLC) is inviting views on the root causes it has identified lead to poor mental health in construction and how the industry can help eliminate or reduce them.

Protecting workers from asbestos harm, a crucial conversation at Labour Party Conference
By Matthew Winn, British Safety Council on 29 September 2025
British Safety Council was pleased to join campaign group, Asbestos Information CIC, at their ‘A National Asbestos Strategy’ fringe event at the Labour Party Conference in Liverpool.

A third of 18 to 24-year-olds say working from home leaves them feeling demotivated
By Belinda Liversedge on 29 September 2025
Younger workers feel they’ve been ‘cast adrift’ by their employer in the shift to home and hybrid working, says a new survey with a third of 18 to 24-year-olds saying home working leaves them feeling demotivated.