The proposed reforms to sickness benefits by the government raise critical questions about how we support individuals in transitioning back into work. Liz Kendall’s statement that “if you can work, you must work” sets a firm expectation, but it risks missing the nuance and personalisation required to empower those dealing with long-term sickness, disability, or other barriers to employment.
As GAME Plan practitioners, our approach provides a meaningful alternative that aligns with the intent to increase economic activity but does so by empowering individuals rather than imposing conditions. Let’s explore how we address key aspects of this perspective:
1. From “If You Can Work, You Must Work” to “If You Can Work, We’ll Help You Thrive”
The GAME Plan framework shifts the focus from obligation to empowerment. While we agree that everyone should have the opportunity to contribute meaningfully to society, our approach ensures that this contribution aligns with their strengths, abilities, and aspirations.
By guiding individuals through setting Goals, identifying Actions, securing Means, and supporting Execution, we help them see work not as an imposed duty but as a pathway to fulfilment and stability.
2. Personalised, Flexible Support vs. One-Size-Fits-All Mandates
Reforming jobcentres and creating more personalised employment services is a step in the right direction. However, our GAME Plan takes this further by tailoring support to individual circumstances.
For example:
- A person recovering from illness might need a gradual reintegration into work.
- Someone with fluctuating conditions may benefit from identifying roles with flexible arrangements.
- Individuals with specific passions or skills (like Riley and his dream of sailing) can explore how their interests align with economic opportunities.
This personalised approach fosters confidence and long-term engagement with the workforce.
3. Encouragement Over Sanctions
The proposed reforms lean heavily on conditionality, with benefits tied to taking up training or job offers. While accountability is important, the GAME Plan focuses first on building trust and engagement.
We encourage individuals to explore opportunities voluntarily, showing them how work can align with their values and goals. Sanctions may compel participation, but genuine empowerment inspires it.
4. Addressing Root Causes and Building Human Capital
We commend the focus on addressing root causes, such as integrating NHS services with employment support. The GAME Plan complements this by helping individuals build human capital—their skills, confidence, and resilience.
By identifying the Means to achieve their goals, we address barriers such as financial instability, lack of qualifications, or limited support networks. This proactive approach reduces dependency on benefits while enabling sustainable success.
5. Bridging the Gap Between Businesses and Workers
Businesses face significant challenges in hiring and retaining employees, especially when dealing with long-term sickness. The GAME Plan equips individuals to demonstrate their value to employers by aligning their unique abilities with business needs.
Through coaching, we prepare individuals to engage confidently with potential employers, creating win-win scenarios that benefit both parties.
In Summary: A Positive, Empowering Alternative
The government’s intent to reform sickness benefits reflects a real need to reduce economic inactivity. However, the approach must balance expectations with empowerment.
The GAME Plan achieves this by:
- Helping individuals see work as meaningful and achievable.
- Providing tailored support that respects personal circumstances.
- Encouraging voluntary participation through trust and guidance.
- Equipping individuals to contribute confidently to society and the economy.
Rather than framing work as a duty, let’s inspire people to see it as an opportunity to thrive. By focusing on their potential and supporting their journey, we can create a system that works for everyone.
🌱 If you’re interested in how the GAME Plan can empower individuals to re-enter the workforce with confidence and purpose, get in touch today! Let’s build a brighter future together.
Q&A: How GAME Plan Practitioners Address Sickness Benefits Reform
Q: How does the GAME Plan approach differ from the government’s proposed sickness benefits reform?
The GAME Plan takes an empowering and personalised approach. While the government’s reforms focus on conditionality—tying benefits to job or training acceptance—we prioritise voluntary engagement, building trust, and aligning opportunities with individual goals and abilities. Instead of imposing obligations, we inspire individuals to see work as a pathway to fulfilment, not just a requirement.
Q: How does the GAME Plan help people with long-term sickness re-enter the workforce?
We focus on tailoring solutions to each person’s unique circumstances. For those with long-term sickness or fluctuating conditions, we work with them to:
- Set achievable Goals.
- Identify Actions to overcome barriers.
- Secure Means, like financial and social resources.
- Support Execution through coaching and guidance.
This ensures a gradual, confident reintegration into work that matches their abilities and needs.
Q: What about individuals who feel unable to work?
The GAME Plan recognises that not everyone can work immediately. For those in this position, we focus on building confidence, resilience, and skills over time. By addressing personal challenges at their pace, we help individuals prepare for opportunities when they’re ready, avoiding a one-size-fits-all approach.
Q: Does the GAME Plan support the idea that ‘if you can work, you must work’?
We agree that everyone who is able to work should have the chance to contribute meaningfully. However, our focus is on empowerment, not obligation. Rather than imposing conditions, we help individuals see the value of work in their lives and support them in achieving it on their terms.
Q: How does the GAME Plan address the needs of disabled individuals?
We tailor our approach to accommodate the unique needs of each person, including those with disabilities. For example:
- Helping them explore flexible work arrangements.
- Building confidence through personalised coaching.
- Aligning job opportunities with their strengths and preferences.
Our goal is to ensure they feel supported and valued, rather than pressured.
Q: What role does mental health play in the GAME Plan approach?
Mental health is a key consideration. We integrate coaching to build resilience and address challenges like anxiety or confidence issues. By focusing on strengths and small, achievable steps, we help individuals manage their mental health while pursuing meaningful goals.
Q: How does the GAME Plan support employers in hiring people with long-term sickness or disabilities?
We prepare individuals to confidently present their skills and abilities to employers. By focusing on aligning personal strengths with business needs, we create win-win situations where employers see the value in hiring diverse talent. Additionally, we help bridge the gap between employers’ needs and the available workforce, fostering mutual understanding and collaboration.
Q: What’s the first step for someone interested in the GAME Plan?
The first step is reaching out to discuss their goals and challenges. Together, we’ll create a tailored plan that focuses on achievable steps, empowering them to take control of their journey.
🌱 Contact us today to learn more about how the GAME Plan can help you or someone you care about re-enter the workforce with confidence and purpose!
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