Black Country Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust are excited to announce that Thrive into Work Neurodiversity Service across the West Midlands has been extended to November 2025. As part of this extension, a focused eight-month pilot will target 16–18-year-olds with neurodevelopmental conditions, helping to bridge the gap between education and employment. This vital service provides specialist, personalised employment support to neurodivergent individuals who are either out of work, on sick leave, or at risk of losing their job. The extension ensures that more young people can now benefit from early, targeted support during a crucial time in their transition from education into the world of work.
Job seekers in the Black Country will have the chance to explore exciting opportunities at the Dudley Jobs Fair on Thursday 10 April 2025, at Dudley Town Hall. Organised by the Individual Placement and Support (IPS) and Retention Employment Services, the event is free and open to all.
Attendees will be able to connect with local employers actively hiring across various industries, including Balfour Beatty, West Midlands Fire Service, and West Bromwich Building Society. Employers will be available to discuss vacancies and offer application guidance.
The IPS and Retention team, which forms part of the Trust’s Employment and Recovery Service, supports individuals with mental health challenges in finding or sustaining employment. Their vocational specialists offer one-on-one assistance, helping job seekers identify suitable roles, apply for jobs, and succeed in the workplace.
A new campaign, WorkWell in Our Words, has officially launched, shining a light on real-
life experiences of individuals who have benefited from engaging with the WorkWell initiative that is led by Black Country Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust.
The campaign aims to amplify personal stories, inspire others to seek help, and highlight the life-changing impact of the WorkWell imitative, which is a pilot funded by the UK Government to support people with health conditions and disabilities to find or retain employment to boost their wellbeing.
The Employment Retention Service work with individuals to support their return to work. Retention workers liaise with employers to provide in work support if individuals are struggling to cope, or leave with dignity if this is right for them.
The Employment Retention Service work with individuals to support their return to work. Retention workers liaise with employers to provide in work support if individuals are struggling to cope, or leave with dignity if this is right for them.
The Black Country Job Support continue to support community hour at Black Country Xtra, with Andy & Sarah from the Thrive into Work teams the latest to attend the local radio station.
As the festive season approaches, Wolverhampton IPS team continue to work with local organisation, the Good Shepherd, supporting clients to find and retain employment, working collaboratively to help individuals and volunteering their time in the Good Shepherd kitchens.