New WorkWell App Launches in Cornwall to Support People with Health Barriers to Employment

Published On: 31 July 2025Last Updated: 31 July 2025By CornishStuff

New Digital Tools Launched to Support Mental Health and Employment

Cornwall is one of just 15 areas in the UK to benefit from government funding through the WorkWell programme, designed to help people with health conditions stay in or return to work.

This month marks a new step for the programme, with the launch of a free WorkWell app offering digital mental health support to people across Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly.

The app provides six digital cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT) sessions, enabling users to track their progress, log how they’re feeling, and connect with a WorkWell coach for personalised advice.

Jessie Leigh, NHS lead for WorkWell Cornwall and Isles of Scilly, said:

“The WorkWell app has been designed to help with mental health, which is now the top health reason for people leaving the workforce due to ill health. The app offers support at the touch of a button, including digital cognitive behaviour therapy sessions, and the option to connect with a friendly WorkWell coach for personalised support.”

Real People, Real Results

Over 550 people in Cornwall have already received free and confidential coaching and support from the WorkWell programme. Now, with the addition of the app, even more are expected to benefit.

Two local men have shared their experiences in a new series of films created by NHS Cornwall.

Daniel Stuart, a former harrier who lost work after an accident, has since launched his own jewellery and gift business thanks to the funding, training, and mental health support he received through WorkWell.

Obadiah Light also features in the films, speaking about the fast support he received from coaches, which is helping him gain qualifications and return to a career he loves after stepping away from work following a bereavement.

Support at Your Fingertips

The app has been developed by Cerina, a team of experts in psychology, technology and consumer experience.

Prasannajeet Mane, founder of Cerina, said:

“We are incredibly proud to partner with NHS Cornwall to launch this app and help people take small daily steps towards lasting positive change. Our goal is to empower people to manage day-to-day mental health challenges through evidence-based techniques, support that can be accessed anytime, anywhere, whenever they need it most.”

Jessie Leigh added:

“WorkWell Cornwall’s mental health app is a clear example of empowering individuals to use digital tools to support their overall health and wellbeing. It’s great to see this type of innovation being rolled out across Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly, especially as it’s a great example of how we’re delivering the NHS 10-year plan shift to more digital access to mental health support.

“We know that people in work tend to be healthier and experience better overall health, and that being unable to work can be detrimental to health.”