Evaluation of the Fit for Work services pilots: Focused study of GP involvement with Fit for Work Services

Researchers: Roy Sainsbury, Jacqueline Davidson and Katharine Weston

Funder: Department for Work and Pensions and the Department of Health

Duration: January 2011 - July 2011

Background

Fit for Work Service (FFWS) Pilots are currently being piloted in 11 areas in Great Britain. The FFWS aims to provide support to help people stay in work or to enable a timely return to work after developing a health condition or disability. GPs can be a vital source of information about the FFWS during consultations about health problems and the patient’s ability to continue to work. Emerging findings from the evaluation of the FFWS suggest that pilot sites have varied experiences in engaging GPs in the FFWS. Some GPs inform their patients about the FFWS whilst others do not.

Study Aims and Methods

The main aim of the focused study with GPs is to generate findings which will increase our understandings of the barriers and facilitators to GP involvement with FFWS. A total of fifty GPs across the 11 pilot sites will be interviewed by telephone.

Policy and practice aims

The study findings will help the Department for Work and Pensions and the FFWS to be more effective in engaging GPs and increasing the flow of appropriate referrals to the service.

If you require further information about the project, please contact Jacqueline Davidson .