Talking Therapies Employment Advice service celebrates two years of supporting wellbeing and work
The Talking Therapies Employment Advice (EA) Service at Black Country Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust is celebrating its second anniversary, marking two years of helping people improve their mental wellbeing while staying in, returning to, or moving closer to employment.
Since launching in November 2023, the service has supported 3,791 people to access tailored employment advice alongside Talking Therapies support. By integrating mental health and employment guidance, the service has helped individuals overcome workplace challenges, rebuild confidence, and create more stable futures for themselves and their families.
Over the past year alone (April 2024–March 2025), the service engaged with 1,881 people, and it is on track to support a further 2,280 people between April 2025 and March 2026. This growth reflects improved referral processes, stronger collaboration with therapy teams, and expanded outreach across local communities.
Clients have reported improved mental health and wellbeing, increased confidence, and practical benefits such as support with reasonable adjustments, Wellness Action Plans, and return-to-work planning. Many people who were off sick have been supported to return to work safely, while others have been helped to sustain employment or make informed decisions that prioritise their health.
One anonymised case study highlights the impact of the service. A client who was off sick due to mental health difficulties and a workplace grievance was supported to request reasonable adjustments, navigate HR processes, and attend meetings with their employer. With persistent advocacy from the service, adjustments were agreed and the client successfully returned to work.
The service has also played a key role in strengthening community connections, working with Jobcentre Plus, local councils, social prescribers, community and faith groups, LGBTQ+ organisations, and partners such as Just Straight Talk and The Recovery College. This partnership approach has helped reduce isolation, connect people to volunteering and education opportunities, and improve employer understanding of mental health in the workplace.
Selina Cudjoe, Team Manager for Talking Therapies Employment Service said: “Over the last two years, we’ve seen first-hand how powerful it is when mental health and employment support are brought together. This service has helped thousands of people feel more confident, supported and hopeful about their future. We’re incredibly proud of what has been achieved and remain committed to reaching more people, strengthening partnerships, and continuing to support recovery, wellbeing and meaningful employment.”
Looking ahead, the service plans to expand community outreach, deepen employer partnerships, and continue improving accessibility to ensure more people can benefit from integrated mental health and employment support.
For more about the service visit blackcountryjobsupport.com
