The government have confirmed that the funding for the Employment Advice in Talking Therapies Programme will continue for the next financial year.

On behalf of Mental Health Matters, Director of Quality and Operations, Tracey Bell, responded:

"Employment Advisors are a flagship model of employment support, embedded within NHS Talking Therapies. Over the past year alone, the programme has helped tens of thousands of people across England achieve better outcomes in both their employment and mental health."

MHM deliver 15 Employment Advisor services nationally, across the North East, North West and the South East. With five new services starting last year in Northumberland, Durham and Darlington, Solihull and Mid and South Essex, MHM pride ourselves on the commitment of our colleagues and their dedication to supporting positive employment. The government's commitment to another year of funding will enable thousands more people to be supported on the path towards recovery.

However, while this programme has proven its value, short-term funding commitments create uncertainty. We need a longer-term funding solution that gives Employment Advisors in Talking Therapies the ability to focus on delivering life-changing support, in a stable environment."

Coren Munday, Senior Employment Advisor in Hertfordshire, added:

"Our advisors have an extensive track record of delivering for people who access our services, so we are appreciative that funding for the Employment Advisors programme has been extended for a further 12 months.

Common mental health problems such as stress, anxiety and depression can impact people’s ability to find, stay in, or return to work, and we are acutely aware of the positive impact that good employment can have on people's mental health.

The Hertfordshire Employment Advisor in Talking Therapies service has supported 1,751 individuals in the last year and with an ever-growing demand, this service is one that focuses on offering tailored support based on the individual and their journey."