This report presents findings of a qualitative research project commissioned by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) to investigate the relationship between mental health and employment. The research was conducted during 2007 by the Social Policy Research Unit at the University of York and the Institute for Employment Studies.
The study was designed to address a gap in knowledge about the circumstances that lead people to claim Incapacity Benefit because of a mental health condition and what factors contribute to people with mental health conditions returning to work after a period on Incapacity Benefit. The study also explored employers' understanding and experience of dealing with mental health conditions in the workplace.