Suffolk Work Well during the COVID-19 pandemic
Suffolk Work Well Manager, Tony Wooderson explains how the service has adapted in the current pandemic
Suffolk Mind’s project, Suffolk Work Well (SWW) supports people with their mental health in the workplace.
We provide practical and emotional support to people wishing to gain, regain or retain their employment where their emotional wellbeing was impacting adversely on them, by whatever factors. We aim to use our Emotional Needs and Resources model to uncover what emotional needs aren’t being met, and work on strategies to meet them.
Before the COVID-10 pandemic, we offered face-to-face, 1-2-1 support initially in Ipswich and Felixstowe. We soon expanded to the Saxmundham area, working with not only clients but medical professionals, organisations, businesses and the social prescribing teams.
The current situation has however meant changes. SWW cannot presently provide that physical 1-2-1 support but our team of experienced, friendly and knowledgeable staff, adapted extremely quickly and are now delivering the service via phone, email, texts and of course – and what we are all getting used to – video chats. This support not only continues but is growing and we are now offering the service county-wide.
Support is available to those newly unemployed or furloughed through the pandemic, and those obliged to work from home and therefore are work-isolated.
The support provided is free, and not time-bound. We will work with you to try to determine and address both your physical and emotional needs for your improved mental wellbeing.
The referral process is easy via this link – as a self, health professional or work-based referrer. Or click here for more details about the service.
Author: Kristina Brinkley
