People's experience of health in relation to employment

Healthwatch West Sussex undertook a survey to explore how health affects people’s ability to find, maintain or return to employment. The survey received 39 responses and aimed to understand the barriers people face, their experiences of accessing support services, and what changes could improve outcomes. 

The findings showed that health issues are a significant factor affecting employment. Many respondents described difficulties working due to physical health conditions, mental health challenges, disabilities and long-term illnesses. Several also reported experiencing discrimination, a lack of workplace adjustments, and challenges securing employment later in life. 

Most respondents were older adults, with 75% either retired or early retired and 61% living in the Horsham and Mid Sussex areas. Retirement, health needs, being laid off and resigning were the most common reasons for leaving previous employment. 

While 64% of respondents felt their last paid job utilised their skills and abilities, a quarter felt their skills were underused. Many people expressed frustration that health conditions, age or disability prevented them from continuing work or returning to employment.

The survey found that most respondents were not actively seeking work, with 83% reporting they were not looking for a new paid job. Personal goals tended to focus on maintaining health, independence, quality of life and staying active rather than returning to employment.

Access to support was a key concern. Only 29% of respondents had accessed health or mental health support during a job search. Many participants reported long waiting lists for services such as musculoskeletal (MSK) support and mental health care. Some also described difficulties navigating the benefits system and dissatisfaction with support from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP).

A notable finding was that 78% of respondents did not believe there was any additional support their GP or the NHS could provide to help them return to work, while 86% felt that support from the DWP, social services or community organisations would not help them return to employment. 

The survey also explored wellbeing and social isolation. Respondents commonly reported feelings of loneliness, exclusion and low confidence. Around one-third reported feeling lonely or socially excluded some of the time or often, while 32% reported low confidence and 40% reported low motivation to socialise or attend community groups.

Many people described taking proactive steps to reduce isolation, including volunteering, joining community groups, attending fitness or dance classes, studying, walking, caring for pets and spending time with friends and family. These activities were seen as important sources of purpose, connection and wellbeing. 

Healthwatch concluded that support should focus on helping people manage health conditions alongside employment. The report recommends stronger links between healthcare, employment and community services, earlier conversations about workplace adjustments, improved access to employment support, reduced waiting times for health services, and greater investment in community activities that reduce isolation and build confidence.

Overall, the report found that poor health, service access difficulties, social isolation and complex support systems can create significant barriers to employment. It recommends a more joined-up approach that addresses both health and wider wellbeing needs to help people remain in or return to work where appropriate.