The FFW service is a case managed service for which Sandwell PCT, in partnership with Birmingham, Solihull & Coventry, has received DH funding to run as a pilot for 18months commencing January 2010. The service will be provided by a company called Ingeus and supported by a collective management team and clinical advisory team from the PCTs.

The Sandwell part of the pilot will be run within the Oldbury and Smethwick G.P. Cluster. It will be a quick & easy referral system which can be used by GPs & other clinicians, non-clinicians e.g. Housing, Social services, Trades Unions, Employers or self referral by the client. The target group is people who are employed who have a medical condition which is affecting their ability to attend or perform their work.  It is not for the long term unemployed.

The service aims to liaise with all parties to optimise return to or retention in work by providing this intervention as early as possible when it is recognised that the clients’ working ability could be adversely affected in the long term  leading to job loss.

The aim is to avoid the benefits trap where possible by working together to improve, maintain and protect the health of the employed person and to ensure that they can work in an environment and culture which supports their health.

Referrals can start from now if you think you have appropriate clients who would find it supportive.

Contact Details:

Free phone: 0800 321 3180
Email: This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it

N.B. For those of you who wish to refer a client who is not within the Oldbury & Smethwick cluster, please refer direct to WORKWELL - 0121 289 3022 or email This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it

For further information contact the 'Fit for Work project manager' on 0121 612 1498.