The Durham Programme offers individual pre-employment packages, for those who may be seeking a route back to employment, education or training but are experiencing difficulties due to health and/or social circumstances.
The service works in partnership with NHS County Durham, Durham County Council, Jobcentre Plus and Durham University. In line with recent welfare reform, the programme provides assistance to claimants of Employment and Support Allowance, Incapacity Benefit, Income Support (health related) and Disability Living Allowance (for self) to move towards further education, training and employment.
The service aims to improve the health and well being of clients, to contribute to a reduction in health inequalities and to support clients to access mainstream and other existing services.
A dedicated Case Manager will complete a comprehensive assessment, develop an action plan and co-ordinate treatment. The assessment includes a range of pre programme measures that are repeated mid programme and/or on completion, to evidence the client's progress. The programme provides quick access to services where appropriate, including:
- Counselling
- Stress Management
- Pain Management
Treatments and interventions are arranged in local community venues whenever possible.
The Case Manager may also provide signposting to services for help and advice on issues such as employment, housing and debt. Clients may be referred on to mainstream health services, local alcohol services, employability agencies and a wide range of services in the voluntary sector. The Case Manager will look to source and provide information, help, support and signposting to services for any aspect of the client's health or social circumstances which may be acting as a barrier to a return to work, training or further education.
To be eligible clients must be:
- Aged 19 years to 65 years
- Resident in County Durham
- In receipt of one of the following benefits:
- Incapacity Benefit (IB)
- Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)
- Disability Living Allowance (DLA for self)
- Income Support Allowance (IS health related)
- Experiencing a mental health issue as a primary or secondary condition (eg depression, anxiety, stress, low self esteem, low confidence, pain).
Clients can be referred to the Durham Programme by:
- GPs or any other health or social care workers
- Jobcentre Plus
- Community or voluntary organisations
- Self referral
The Durham programme provides clients with rapid access to free, confidential services and continuous support via the Case Manager who will monitor and encourage progress.
Would you like further information? Contact us on 0845 130 4041