The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has provided an update for benefit claimants with back, joint or muscle issues in regards to a significant push towards employment. The DWP highlighted its initiative aimed at helping Personal Independence Payment (PIP) recipients return to work as part of this effort.
It’s been revealed that 17 Integrated Care Boards (ICBs) throughout England will share a £3.5 million fund dedicated to enhancing MSK services. Each region in England and Wales is set to receive up to £300,000, targeting one of the key factors of economic inactivity.
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This scheme is a component of the Labour Government’s Plan for Change, which promises to “put more money into people’s pockets and get the NHS back on its feet”. Employment Minister Alison McGovern MP commented: “For too long, people locked out of work with health issues have been forgotten about and denied the support they need to get well and get working. It’s stifling our economy and preventing those eager to progress in life from unleashing their full potential.”
McGovern also remarked on the financial infusion, stating: “This multi-million-pound funding boost means musculoskeletal patients across the country will get the help they need, as we give clinical leaders the resources to innovate, get people off waiting lists and get Britain working again.”
In addition, Andrew Gwynne, the Minister for Public Health and Prevention, weighed in: “With prevention, early detection, and treatment, we know that the 17 million people with musculoskeletal issues in England could better manage their conditions, improving their quality of life and enabling them to rejoin the workforce.”
Deborah Alsina MBE, Chief Executive of Versus Arthritis, said: “With over 20 million people living with musculoskeletal conditions, including 10 million with arthritis, Versus Arthritis understands the devastating impact these conditions can have on working lives.”
“Arthritis can cause debilitating pain and joint stiffness and prevent people from doing everyday tasks, with work sometimes made to feel like an impossible challenge. MSK Community Services can be an invaluable resource for people with arthritis, and we are delighted to see the launch of this programme in dedicated sites across England and in the future across the whole country.”