Small business insurance holders are to be given new support in helping workers with mental health issues, the government has revealed.
The New Horizons: A Shared Vision for Mental Health strategy includes a range of measures designed to help people with mental health problems stay in the workplace or return to employment as soon as possible.
Under the scheme, nine occupational health advice line pilots will be launched to provide small business insurance holders will guidance on how to help employees who are experiencing problems.
In addition, a network of mental health specialists will be established in each of the UK's Jobcentre Plus districts to coordinate local health and employment support extended to mental health sufferers.
Andy Burnham, health secretary, told small business insurance holders: "Life-threatening conditions like cancer or heart disease prompt sympathy and understanding. But mental health is all too often shrouded in mystery, stigma or simply forgotten."
Earlier this month, the Department for Work and Pensions launched a £4 million fund to finance projects to improve employee health and welfare.
