The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) is launching a significant new initiative designed to help people on benefits return to employment. This ambitious strategy involves a partnership with more than sixty major employers, alongside numerous small and medium-sized enterprises.
Employer-Led Vanguards Drive Change
Developed in response to Sir Charlie Mayfield's Keep Britain Working Review, the programme aims to tackle the growing issue of ill-health as a barrier to work. The central pillar of this effort is the creation of employer-led Vanguards.
These Vanguards, which include household names such as British Airways, Google, Sainsbury's, and Holland and Barrett, will act as early adopters. Their role is to develop, test, and refine new approaches to managing health issues and disabilities in the workplace. They will be joined by Mayoral Combined Authorities in this collaborative effort.
A Response to a National Crisis
The initiative is a direct answer to what Sir Charlie Mayfield describes as Britain sliding into an "avoidable crisis." In his review, he identified ill-health as one of the biggest brakes on economic growth and opportunity.
"Employers are uniquely placed to make a difference," Mayfield stated, "preventing health issues where possible, supporting people when they arise, and helping them return to work. If we keep Britain working, everyone wins – people, employers, and the state."
The Labour government, through Work and Pensions Secretary Pat McFadden, has fully endorsed this approach. McFadden emphasised that "keeping people healthy and in work is the right thing to do and is essential for economic growth." He confirmed the Vanguards are a key part of the government's Plan for Change, aimed at driving growth across the country.
Building a Healthier, More Productive Workforce
Business and Trade Secretary Peter Kyle highlighted the core belief that treating people with dignity and care allows businesses to flourish. The 'Keep Britain Working' initiative leverages the expertise of leading UK businesses to achieve two main goals:
- Prevent ill health in the workplace wherever possible.
- Support those affected by health issues to stay in their jobs.
This effort is also supported by the Confederation of British Industry (CBI). John Foster, the CBI's Chief Policy and Campaigns Officer, welcomed the report as a "significant milestone" and acknowledged the business community's recognition of the urgent need for a positive step-change in how health-related barriers to work are addressed.
With the formal launch on November 27, 2025, this employer-government partnership marks a concerted push to build healthier, more resilient workplaces and reduce economic inactivity.
