Brent Council has launched a pilot service to give employment support to those with common mental health problems.
The West London Alliance Mental Health and Employment Trailblazer service will help some of the estimated 34,000 people in Brent affected by common mental health issues – such as depression, stress and anxiety – as part of their treatment, helping them find sustainable work, which the council says can aid recovery.
The scheme will be delivered by the charity Twining Enterprise, in conjunction with NHS service, IAPTS – which provides free mental health services for residents.
The Trailblazer aims to improve the quality of residents' lives, enable them to be more independent and reduce spending on public services – referrals will mainly be via the Job Centre Plus and the council says residents are encouraged to speak to their advisors if they are in need of support.
Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Growth, Employment and Skills, Councillor Shama Tatler, said:
“Around one in four of us will suffer from a mental health issue at some point in our lifetime. People often see getting back into work as the end point of the recovery, but this programme aims to make getting back into work part of the recovery. Finding employment is crucial for those with mental health conditions, as it helps them overcome barriers, take back their independence – and gives a sense of community and structure to their lives.The evidence shows that this type of help makes a real difference – and so I am very pleased that we are able to provide this Trailblazer service for our residents.”
Duncan Lewis Mental Health Solicitors
Duncan Lewis is the UK’s largest provider of Legal Aid mental health services and can advise mental health patients on a wide range of issues – including access to NHS mental health services and detention under the Mental Health Act.
Duncan Lewis mental health solicitors regularly visit NHS hospitals to advise on mental health law – and are available across England and Wales at short notice for hospital and police station appointments.
In some cases, Duncan Lewis mental health solicitors may be able to advise the nearest relative or carer of a mental health patient on a range of issues, including initiating treatment reviews where appropriate.
For expert legal advice on mental health law, call the Duncan Lewis Mental Health Solicitors Helpline on 020 3114 1124.