In 2024, there were an estimated 1.9 million people who were economically inactive but who wanted to work.
The Government identified a need to support some of these people into long-term employment, as part of their ambition to kickstart economic growth and develop good jobs and improved productivity in every part of the country.
Working in collaboration with a range of groups across government and the health sector, a central government department developed plans for a national programme to support disabled people, people with health conditions and those facing complex barriers into sustainable employment.
What was the challenge?
The programme required over £1bn of public investment and had to align with government priorities on economic growth and productivity. It needed to operate at national scale while remaining locally led, with strong assurance, senior stakeholder confidence and ministerial approval.
The department required a robust business case, a clear end-to-end service model, and a delivery approach that could be mobilised quickly across England and Wales.
How did we help?
Moorhouse led the development of the programme’s Strategic Outline, Outline and Full Business Cases in line with HM Treasury Green Book requirements. This included defining strategic intent, objectives and alignment to government priorities, alongside detailed cost modelling, economic appraisal and risk assessment to demonstrate value for money and secure senior and ministerial approval.
We designed the end-to-end national supported employment service, translating policy ambition into clear service blueprints, customer journeys and delivery standards. Design-led governance and structured decision points enabled timely senior approval of key service choices and supported a smooth transition into mobilisation.
We supported delivery readiness and implementation planning, defining rollout approaches, future operating models and contract management arrangements. In parallel, we shaped and delivered a coordinated engagement approach with local authorities, the health sector and voluntary organisations to build confidence and momentum ahead of launch.
Our support enabled the successful approval of over £1bn of public investment and the on-time national launch of a new supported employment service. The programme is underpinned by a holistic service design that balances national consistency with locally led delivery, supported by clear roles, responsibilities and assurance across delivery and partner management functions.
The service is supporting people with health-related and other complex barriers to employment to rebuild confidence, improve wellbeing and progress towards sustainable work. Individuals receive personalised, voluntary support from dedicated employment specialists, including help with job search, CVs, interviews and workplace adjustments.
What was the impact?
At a system level, the programme is increasing participation in the labour market and contributing to stronger local economies. By creating a more joined-up and inclusive employment system, it supports long-term ambitions to reduce economic inactivity and deliver lasting social and economic value.
