New Wellbeing Support Available – Able Futures

Able Futures is a confidential mental health support service funded by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), designed to help people manage their mental wellbeing while remaining in work.

What is Able Futures? 

Able Futures delivers the Access to Work Mental Health Support Service, offering up to nine months of confidential one-to-one support from a qualified mental health professional. 

The service is: 

• Free to access
• Completely confidential
• Available without manager approval
• Available whether or not you have a formal mental health diagnosis
• Focused on helping people stay well and effective at work 

 Support Can Help With:

• Work-related stress and pressure
• Anxiety or low mood
• Bereavement and loss
• Feeling overwhelmed
• Building resilience and coping strategies
• Work-life balance concerns
• Confidence and wellbeing
• Workplace challenges and pressures
• Managing change or uncertainty at work
• Maintaining positive mental health and wellbeing

How Does This Fit with Existing Support?

Able Futures does not replace Occupational Health, employee assistance programmes, counselling services, healthcare provision, or other wellbeing support available through employers.

Instead, it provides an additional, independent, and proactive source of support that individuals can access early, before challenges begin to affect their wellbeing, attendance or performance at work. 

Who Can Access the Service?

• Able Futures is available to people who:
• Are aged 16 or over
• Are in employment
• Live in England, Scotland or Wales
• Are experiencing mental health difficulties that affect, or could affect, their working life

Importantly, you do not need a formal diagnosis or need to be unwell before seeking support. Early intervention is encouraged. 

How to Access Able Futures

You can self-refer directly without speaking to your manager or employer. 

Online:

Apply via the Able Futures website: Support for mental health at work | Able Futures Mental Health Support Service 

Telephone: 0800 321 3137

Monday to Friday, 8:00am to 6:00pm

 Email: [email protected]

 Why Use Able Futures?

Seeking support early can help prevent stress and other mental health challenges from developing into longer-term difficulties, burnout or sickness absence. The service offers a confidential opportunity to speak with a qualified professional who understands the relationship between mental wellbeing and work. 

we encourage you to explore these resources and access support at the earliest opportunity if you are experiencing difficulties with your mental health or wellbeing. Early support can make a significant difference in helping you maintain your wellbeing both at work and in your personal life. 

Looking After Your Wellbeing

Good mental health is an important part of maintaining a healthy, resilient and productive working life. Taking steps to support your wellbeing is not a sign of weakness; it is a positive investment in yourself, your health and your ability to thrive both at work and at home.