WorkWell West helps people with health conditions start, stay or succeed in work
by Ginette Davies · BristolLiveIf you are off work because of a health condition, worried about remaining in your role, or seeking a job that fits your needs, you don’t have to navigate it alone. WorkWell West is here to help you plan your next steps and move forward with confidence.
The emphasis is early intervention: timely, practical support before small barriers become big ones and the service offers free, personalised help from trained work and health coaches.
WorkWell West began taking referrals in October 2024 across Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire to help people with health conditions start, stay or succeed in work.
The national programme aims to support around 60,000 people to better accommodates their health conditions. Locally, it is managed by Bristol City Council, covering the Integrated Care Board area and is one of 15 pilot areas created by the Department for Work and Pensions and the Department of Health and Social Care.
Why early help matters
Residents come forward for many reasons. Some are off work after a flare‑up or new diagnosis and want a safe, confident route back. Others find their current role is aggravating a condition and need to explore adjustments or alternative duties.
Many are seeking employment that better accommodates a long‑term condition after leaving a previous job because of sickness. Employers also ask for advice on supporting a colleague’s rehabilitation while keeping skills within the team. These are the kinds of situations the programme deals with every day.
Addressing issues early can prevent extended absences, reduce stress and improve outcomes for individuals and employers alike. By bringing health, employment and community support closer together, the pilot aims to remove obstacles before they grow.
As part of the national WorkWell initiative, the West of England programme links local NHS, council and voluntary services so residents can access coordinated, practical help that reflects real life.
Referrals are welcomed from individuals, GPs, employers, community groups and support organisations. Members of the public can also signpost friends, family and colleagues. There is no charge to use the service.
What the support includes
A work and health coach will agree a plan that could include return‑to‑work steps, reasonable adjustments and phased arrangements, or options for alternative duties.
People receive clear information on employment rights and practical help for conversations with employers. Where appropriate, coaches direct participants to local resources such as wellbeing activities, skills training and specialist services across the area.
Support is flexible, from short‑term guidance to plan a safe return to longer‑term coaching to change direction at a manageable pace.
Help for employers
The programme also works with local employers to retain valued staff and reduce sickness absence. The team provides straightforward advice on reasonable adjustments, phased return planning and inclusive practice that supports colleagues with health conditions.
Guidance is tailored to the size and sector of each organisation, helping businesses meet legal duties while creating healthy, productive workplaces.
How to sign up
After contact is made, you will be offered an initial conversation to understand your health needs and work goals. Everything is voluntary and free to access. Residents aged 16 and over who live in Bristol, North Somerset or South Gloucestershire are eligible.
You can self‑refer, speak to your GP, or ask your employer, a community group or a support organisation to refer on your behalf.
WorkWell West has won the Collaborative Working Award at the South West Integrated Personalised Care Awards for dedicated, innovative teamwork delivering integrated, person‑centred care linking health, employment and community support across Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire