If you’re self-employed, pain can affect more than just how you feel.

Back pain, neck pain or another muscle or joint problem can make it harder to get through a working day, take on jobs or keep your business running as normal. And when you work for yourself, taking time off isn’t always a simple option.

If you live in Neath Port Talbot and a musculoskeletal problem is affecting your ability to work, you may be eligible for funded support through the In-Work Support Service (IWSS).

What is the In-Work Support Service?

The In-Work Support Service is a Welsh Government-funded service designed to help people manage a physical or mental health condition that is affecting them at work.

Importantly, it isn’t only for people who have an employer.

Self-employed people can be eligible too.

In Neath Port Talbot, the service is delivered by RCS and can provide access to up to six funded sessions of appropriate support, subject to eligibility and assessment.

The Hive Health is an approved provider of musculoskeletal care through the service, with chiropractic and osteopathy available following referral from RCS.

Do I need to be off work to apply?

No.

The service is available both to people who are currently off work because of a health problem and to people who are still working but finding that their health is making work difficult.

That might include, for example, struggling to manage a physically demanding job because of back pain, finding prolonged sitting increasingly difficult, or having a muscle or joint problem that is beginning to interfere with your usual work.

You don’t need to wait until you can no longer work before asking for support.

Can I apply if I’m a sole trader?

Yes.

RCS will check your individual eligibility when you contact the service. Current criteria include being employed or self-employed, having the legal right to live and work in the UK, and living within one of the areas covered by the RCS service, which includes Neath Port Talbot and Swansea.

Does my business have to pay?

No.

The In-Work Support Service is funded by the Welsh Government, so eligible support is provided without a charge to you or your business.

Do I need an employer or GP to refer me?

No. You can contact RCS yourself.

You can complete the RCS referral form or contact their team directly. They will check your eligibility and discuss how your health is affecting your work before deciding what support is appropriate.

If musculoskeletal care is suitable and you are referred to The Hive Health, we can then arrange your appointments here in Neath.

What happens if I’m referred to The Hive Health?

Once we receive your referral from RCS, our team will contact you to arrange your first appointment.



Your first visit gives us time to understand what has been happening, how the problem is affecting your work and everyday life, and whether chiropractic or osteopathic care is appropriate for you.

Depending on your RCS referral and your individual needs, the scheme can fund a course of MSK appointments without you having to pay for those sessions yourself.

As with all care at The Hive Health, the number and type of appointments will depend on your individual circumstances rather than following a set treatment plan.

Could I be eligible?

It may be worth checking if:

• you are employed or self-employed;
• you live in Neath Port Talbot or another area covered by RCS;
• a physical health problem is making it harder for you to do your job, or has caused you to be off work; and
• you would benefit from support to help you remain in or return to work.
• 
  

RCS makes the final decision about eligibility and which support is appropriate.

How do I apply?

You don’t need to contact The Hive Health first.

The first step is to apply to the In-Work Support Service through RCS. Their team will assess your eligibility and discuss the support available to you.

Find out more about IWSS and how to apply

If you are referred to The Hive Health for musculoskeletal care, RCS will send the referral to us and we’ll take it from there.

If you’re self-employed and pain is starting to get in the way of your work, it is worth knowing that you do not necessarily have to manage it alone — and you do not have to wait until you are off work before asking what support is available.