The Free Work Support Programme That’s Changing Cornish Lives

A programme helping people in Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly to stay in or return to work when struggling with their physical or mental health has secured three more years of funding, with early results suggesting it is making a genuine difference to people’s lives.

WorkWell, one of 15 regional pilots funded by the Government and delivered through NHS Cornwall via voluntary sector partners, will now continue until 2029 following what those involved describe as strong early results.

What Is WorkWell?

WorkWell offers fast, free, personalised coaching, giving people swift access to practical support around workplace challenges, confidence, health management and return-to-work planning. People can refer themselves, or be referred through the voluntary sector or primary care networks.

Since launching, more than 1,000 people have been referred to the programme, resulting in more than 950 individual action plans. The satisfaction rate among those who have received support stands at 96%.

Jessie Leigh, WorkWell programme lead for NHS Cornwall, said: “We have been able to showcase some brilliant results since the pilot began, so the news of the extended funding is fantastic as it means we can continue to help people start, stay and succeed in work for years to come.”

The Mental Health App

Alongside its coaching offer, WorkWell launched a mental health app last summer. Free to download and use, it offers bite-sized cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) sessions that people can work through in their own time, as well as mood tracking and day-to-day coaching tips.

By spring 2026, more than 600 people were using the app, with early data pointing to clinically significant improvements. Anxiety scores (GAD-2) improved from 4.03 to 2.90 for app users, and depression scores (PHQ-2) dropped from 3.42 to 3.00.

More than half of those who download the app use it regularly, a figure described as comfortably beating industry benchmarks. Around 25% of users go on to request one-to-one coaching through the app.

Jessie said: “Mental health is now the top health reason for people leaving the workforce. We needed a new kind of support, something that combines the best of digital tools with access to real, human connection.”

Prasannajeet Mane, founder of app developer Cerina, said: “With mood tracking, day-to-day coaching tips, and the ability to request support from a WorkWell coach, it’s designed for real life, the kind of help someone can check on a bus, during a quiet moment at home, or on a lunch break when stress is at its peak. This early-intervention approach means support is available before someone reaches a breaking point or loses their job due to health challenges.”

Employer Champions

Businesses across Cornwall are also getting involved. Growing numbers are signing up as Employer Champions, signposting staff to the WorkWell programme. The combination of the free app and no-cost personalised coaching has proved attractive to employers looking to support staff dealing with health challenges.

Truro and Penwith College is among those taking part. Amelia Kitchen, head of people at the college, said: “We are delighted to be an Employer Champion with WorkWell. Prioritising the health and wellbeing of our colleagues is really important to us and this brilliant programme provides free and easily accessible, tailored support at times when we would benefit from a local helping hand to navigate more challenging times in our lives. The news of the extended funding is a huge boost for people in Cornwall so well done to all involved.”

More information about WorkWell, including details of the Employer Champions programme, is available on the NHS Cornwall and Isles of Scilly website.