Thousands of people with back, joint and muscle issues have been assessed quicker following a landmark initiative which aims to help people stay in, or move back into, work
In all, around 7,500 people living with musculoskeletal issues (MSK) in areas of the country with the longest waiting times were seen quicker thanks to an NHS pilot backed by £3.5 million of investment from the Department for Work and Pensions.
The pilot trialled new digital tools to help people manage their conditions remotely, and innovative one-day clinics that bring health specialists and mental health support and physical activity services together, allowing people to engage with multiple services in one visit.
It’s part of the Government’s drive to tackle economic inactivity – with around 2.8 million people signed off due to long-term sickness, with more than half a million because of MSK – and bring down NHS waiting lists.
The funding has contributed to a 20 percent cut in 18 plus week community MSK waiting lists in 17 areas between December 2024 and March 2025.
Minister for Employment Dame Diana Johnson MP said:
It comes alongside a wider support offer that meets sick or disabled people where they are - backed by £3.5 billion by the end of the decade.
Connect to Work will provide personalised help for 300,000 people by 2030, while 1,000 Pathways to Work advisers are now based in Jobcentres across England, Wales and Scotland, offering personalised help to people on health-related benefits with no requirement to work – many of whom had no support before.
The MSK pilot supports the government’s 10 Year Health Plan and Neighbourhood Health Service vision, giving patients access to a range of services under one roof.
On 26 March, the government announced 27 Neighbourhood Health Centres will be open by 2027, offering urgent treatment, GP and pharmacy services. The first 50 centres of a total 250, are backed by £200 million in total investment.
Health Minister Stephen Kinnock said:
The overall NHS waiting list is the lowest it’s been for three years, but the government is doubling down - with record investment and modern, innovative approaches to care ensuring people get seen more quickly as we rebuild the NHS.
Professor Tim Briggs, National Director for Clinical Improvement and Elective Recovery at NHS England, said:
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