Work and Wellbeing

About the service

Being in work can help maintain good mental health. It gives us a purpose, promotes independence and can improve the way we feel about ourselves. Our Employment Specialists will work with you to help you secure or retain a job that is right for you.

The Work and Wellbeing service provides specialist employment support for people living with mental health challenges across Sussex. We will not only support you to achieve your vocational aspirations but also explore other issues that are affecting your ability to secure or sustain employment.

Provided in partnership with the Sussex Partnership NHS Foundation Trust, the service is part of UOK‘s network of mental health support and the West Sussex Pathfinder.

Neighbourhood Mental Health Teams (NMHTs)

This service is also a part of the Neighbourhood Mental Health Team approach, where NHS, GP, community and voluntary partners work together to offer joined-up support. Our focus is to help you get the right help, centred on what matters to you, without needing to retell your story or navigate multiple services. The section below outlines the types of support this service can provide.
Learn more about Neighbourhood Mental Health Teams

What to expect

You will receive one to one support from an Employment Specialist to create a ‘journey to work plan’ tailored to your needs and interests. This is followed by a rapid job search, support throughout the recruitment process and, once in work, ongoing support for both you and your employer.

Am I eligible?

Support is available for adults aged 18+ living in Sussex who are using a mental health service and are motivated about exploring their employment goals. We also offer a specialist service for people who are accessing services from NHS Early Intervention Teams.

How do I apply?

• In Brighton and Hove, we accept referrals from NHS Mental Health Teams or via the UOK Brighton & Hove Central Access Point.
• In West Sussex, we accept referrals from NHS Mental Health Teams working in the area.
• In East Sussex, we accept referrals from NHS Mental Health Teams working in the area. Unfortunately, we are not currently accepting self-referrals.

Employment Resource Packs

We have collated these Employment Resource Packs to provide you with some basic information which we hope you find useful. Please click on the link below for your area, to view, download or print the relevant pack:

• Brighton and Hove
• East Sussex
• West Sussex

Team details

Manager, Operations
Roland Williams
Email: Roland.Williams@southdown.org

Service Manager
Sam Aubrey
Email: Sam.Aubrey@southdown.org

Team Managers