Question to the Department for Work and Pensions:

To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, what recent assessment she has made of the effect of unemployment on a person's mental health.

The Department of Health and Social Care and the Department for Work and Pensions recognise the impact unemployment can have on an individual’s mental health. An independent review* of the scientific evidence on the relationship between work and health, commissioned by the Department for Work and Pensions, found strong evidence that unemployment is generally harmful to health and linked with poorer mental health, psychological distress, and psychiatric morbidity. Our jobcentre staff work in partnership with mental health providers and services to ensure individuals experiencing unemployment receive the necessary help they need to support them in their job search, work entry and job retention.

Notes: * Waddell G and Burton AK. (2006). Is work good for your health and well-being. London: TSO.