WorkWell Durham
WorkWell supports people living in the region to remain economically active. Evidence links poor health and economic activity. By preventing ill health in the first place, or helping keep people healthy, we can support people to remain in work. Good health and good work go hand-in-hand. When we feel well, we’re more able to stay in work, enjoy what we do, and support ourselves and our families. But when health problems – like stress, back pain, or long-term conditions – get in the way, it can be hard to stay in or return to work, even if we want to. The WorkWell Programme is helping people to stay well and stay working.
Current eligible patients will be sent a text message in the next week with the option to be referred into the service. Patients will be age 16-68 and have an active Fit Note and at least one prior Fit Note in the past 6 months.
Going forward the following patients will be eligible:
- Aged 18+ years (there will be some services available for those aged 16 to 18, but not in all places)
- Presenting with or requesting a Fit Note
- At risk of long-term sick leave due to a health condition
- On the Elective Waiting List (EWL)
- Have co-morbidities
- Would benefit from prehabilitative support
The following patients will be excluded :
- Under 16 or over 68 (or under 18 where there is no referral pathway established for under 18’s)
- Long-term sick leave >6 months
- Retired patients
- Palliative care, housebound, or in care homes
- Moderate/severe frailty
- Recent radiotherapy, chemotherapy, or cancer diagnosis
- Recent surgery, fractures, pregnancy, or miscarriage
Some patients (e.g., with fractures) typically recover quickly and are likely to return to work. Others (e.g., certain cancer patients) may never be able to return to work or may already be receiving targeted support for return-to-work or long-term condition management.
If you think you would benefit from a referral, please contact the practice.
Find out more:
Published on 20 March 2026