This may mean a new approach to maintaining health and to using health and social care services as a community resource. The introduction of health impact assessment, health promotion that addresses the pressures of multiple disadvantage in some communities, and refocused professional responsibilities may all be needed. A major priority is to recognise the importance of sustainable health in economic and social regeneration. On the whole, being in work is healthier than being unemployed. Meaningful work, whether paid or unpaid, is protective of mental health and fosters a sense of self worth and belonging.
Employers have a legal duty to ensure work places and work practices are safe and healthy.
Employers can also have considerable influence on the overall health of employees. Welfare to Work 3.6. Central to everyone's sense of well-being and to the creation of sustainable communities is the assurance that comes from playing a useful part in the life of the community, usually through work. The New Deal for the long-term unemployed is about improving people's employability and helping them into sustainable employment. Further help will be available in the North West Wales Prototype Employment Zone.