The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has unveiled a £3.5m fund aimed at helping individuals suffering from back problems return to work.
It is part of an effort to reduce the benefits bill. The initiative aims to provide quicker treatment and support for those with back, joint, and muscle issues, enabling them to re-enter the workforce.
The funding will be allocated to 17 regions identified as having the longest NHS waiting lists for treatments related to musculoskeletal (MSK) conditions.
These areas span from Birmingham to Cornwall, the North East of England, parts of London, Cheshire, Sussex and Dorset. According to the DWP, there are currently 646,000 people unable to work due to MSK conditions – approximately one in four of the record 2.8 million people on long-term sickness benefits.