Online Supported Cognitive Behavioural Therapy

The Autumn Statement signalled the Government’s commitment to improving mental health and employment outcomes, building on evidence-based interventions that improve the employment and health prospects for people with common mental health problems. Research suggests that being out of work for long periods of time is damaging to health, social and financial well-being, and the longer someone is off sick, the harder it is for them to get back to work.

The Mental Health Taskforce, launched in December 2014 and chaired by the Deputy Prime Minister, has focused interest particularly on mental health and employment. It recognises mental health is a mainstream issue and the Taskforce asked Government Departments to look at developing new policies that would strengthen the support offered to people with mental health conditions.

The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) and Department of Health (DH) collaborated to produce a package of measures

As a part of these measures, DWP is considering the procurement of online supported Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) provision across the whole of England. This provision is designed to support people with common mental health conditions to prepare for and move into work, with intervention at the earliest possible point in a claim to benefit or access to the Fit for Work service.

Specifically we would require a supported service (with for example telephone or live online support or online face-to-face therapy), in line with National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) approved treatment.

We anticipate awarding at least two contracts, lasting for approximately two years from the date of commencement. These contracts are expected to begin in early 2016.