Marvin OnumonuThe Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) found that a £3.5m boost by the Government could tackle economic inactivity by improving treatment for musculoskeletal (MSK) conditions.
The funding, to be shared among 17 NHS areas, aims to develop new methods for treating MSK patients faster and supporting their return to work.
Currently, 646,000 people, or one in four on long-term sickness benefits, were out of work due to MSK conditions.
Waiting lists for musculoskeletal care services were the highest in England, with 348,799 people waiting in September 2024.
Minister for Employment Alison McGovern said: “For too long people locked out of work with health issues have been forgotten about and denied the support they need to get well and get working.
“It’s stifling our economy and preventing those eager to progress in life from unleashing their full potential.
“This multi-million-pound funding boost means musculoskeletal patients across the country will get the help they need, as we give clinical leaders the resources to innovate, get people off waiting lists and get Britain working again.”
Minister for public health and prevention Andrew Gwynne said: “With prevention, early detection and treatment, we know that the 17 million people with musculoskeletal issues in England could better manage their conditions, improving their quality of life and enabling them to rejoin the workforce.
“Through the Plan for Change, the government is taking decisive action to drive down waiting lists, improve treatment options and boost the economy.”
Professor Tim Briggs, NHS England’s national director of clinical improvement, said: “The NHS has a proven record of spearheading improvements through the Getting it Right First Time Programme and this initiative could make a real difference to people with MSK conditions– providing them with the care they need and helping them to return to work.
“Local health systems will be able to assess their current services and share examples of best practice to roll out innovative ways of working, as well as improving data on how services are performing.”
Deborah Alsina, chief executive of Versus Arthritis, said: “With over 20 million people living with musculoskeletal conditions, including 10 million with arthritis, Versus Arthritis understands the devastating impact these conditions can have on working lives.
“Arthritis can cause debilitating pain, joint stiffness and prevent people doing everyday tasks, with work sometimes made to feel an impossible challenge.
“MSK Community Services can be an invaluable resource for people with arthritis, and we are delighted to see the launch of this programme in dedicated sites across England, and in the future across the whole country.”
