Evaluation of the Fit for Work services pilots: Qualitative longitudinal study of users' experiences

Researchers: Roy Sainsbury, Katharine Weston, Anne Corden, Jacqueline Davidson, with the University of Liverpool

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

Duration: January 2011 - April 2012

Background

This study is part of a larger evaluation of the Fit for Work Service (FFWS) Pilots. FFW services are being piloted in 11 places in Great Britain and are designed to provide support to help people stay in work or return to work more quickly after developing a health condition or disability.

Methods

This qualitative longitudinal study is focused on service users’ experiences. Two waves of in-depth interviews (six months apart) will be used to explore factors affecting people’s behaviour and decision-making about work, examining in particular the contribution of the FFWS. The study also aims to understand the reasons why people seek help from the FFWS and to learn about their experiences of receiving the support offered.

The study will involve 80 service users from four pilot sites. The aim is to recruit 40 people who are recent recruits to a FFWS and 40 people who have recently returned to work. By doing so we will learn about people’s experiences of engaging with a FFWS, and understand more about how returns to work are achieved and whether and how work is sustained.

Policy and practice aims

The study findings will help to address questions about effective practice in the services and inform policy thinking about the future of FFWS. The study findings will form part of the final report for the whole evaluation, which is due for completion at the end of 2011.

If you require further information about the project, please contact Katharine Weston .