Southdown’s ‘Work in Mind’ service team nominated for Sussex Partnership Positive Practice Awards 2025 

Posted on 24 October 2025

We are pleased to announce that our Work in Mind team has been nominated for Team of the Year (Non-Clinical) at the Sussex Partnership Positive Practice Awards 2025. 

The annual awards recognise staff and teams who make a difference to the people we serve, to colleagues and partners, by living the Trust values of compassion, accountability and optimism. This year saw more than 300 nominations across nine categories, demonstrating innovative work and exceptional contributions across Sussex. 

A service that changes lives 

For eight years, Work in Mind has been bridging the gap between clinical services and vocational recovery, delivering tailored employment support in partnership with NHS Talking Therapies. The team recognises that mental and physical health difficulties can directly affect a person’s ability to work, and that unemployment can, in turn, worsen recovery outcomes. 

The nomination highlights the compassionate, person-centred approach that defines the team’s work. From practical support with CVs and interview skills to workplace advocacy and confidence building, Work in Mind adapts to meet each client’s individual needs. They work alongside NHS clinicians, social prescribers, and community services to ensure employment goals align with therapeutic recovery plans. 

Clients consistently describe the service as life-changing. Many report feeling “listened to for the first time” and say they’re now “able to see a future again.” Individuals who had been out of work for years due to anxiety, depression, or long-term conditions have successfully re-entered employment or training, often moving into roles that build on their strengths and passions. 

Impact that ripples out 

The team’s impact extends beyond individual clients. Families notice increased motivation and engagement, while employers have praised the team’s advocacy in helping them create more inclusive workplaces. One manager shared: “Without Work in Mind’s input, we would have lost a valuable employee. They helped us understand adjustments we’d never considered.” 

Last year marked a milestone for the service, supporting the highest number of clients to date. Each quarter, dozens of people move into employment, training, or sustained job retention, with significant reductions in health inequalities for those most excluded from work. 

A well-deserved recognition 

Commenting on the nomination, Byron Woods, Team Manager – Work in Mind, said: 

 “I want to take a moment to express how proud I am of the Work in Mind team. This award nomination is a testament to the dedication, passion, and consistent effort each member of the team brings to their work every day. It’s incredibly rewarding to see our impact being recognised and demonstrates the way we help shape people’s lives for the better. Thank you all the team for their continued commitment. This nomination reflects the strength we have as a team and the meaningful difference we continue to make.” 

The awards ceremony will take place at the Amex in Brighton on Friday 14 November 2025, where winners and runners-up will be announced. We are keeping our fingers crossed. 
 
To find out more about how we provide employment-related support to individuals with mental health issues, please click the link below: