CIPD encourages Government to extend support for those suffering from mental health problems

CIPD encourages Government to extend support for those suffering from mental health problems to employed as well as the unemployed

The Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD) welcomes the announcement by government that unemployed people suffering from mental health problems are to benefit from enhanced access to therapy and help from a new network of employment support workers. However, the Institute warns that unless such assistance is also made available to those in employment, the number of people suffering from mental health problems will continue to spiral upwards.

Ben Willmott, Senior Public Policy Adviser at the CIPD, says:

ìUnless people suffering from stress and other mental health problems such as anxiety and depression are given early access to support, such as cognitive behavioural therapy and other forms of counselling, they will fall out of employment and add to the numbers claiming benefit.

ìStress at work and other common mental health problems like anxiety and depression are likely to become a growing challenge for individuals, employers and society as the recession takes hold. Research shows that the longer someone is off sick the less likely they are to make a successful return to work.

ìAfter someone has been off work for six months there is only a 50% likelihood of them returning to work. This is why early access to talking therapies and other forms of support for people with mental health problems is vital as soon as they start to experience difficulties and while they are still holding down a job.î