
Can the new government really reduce sickness absence?
As Labour sets about transforming the NHS, mental health services and access to GPs, can the planned changes really reduce sickness absence?
Top of the newly elected government’s policies to change Britain are ambitious plans to reduce the cost of economic inactivity due to sickness absence.
Rachel Reeves, the newly appointed chancellor of the exchequer, said, “If people can work, they should be in work, but when you’ve got a backlog of more than 7 million on NHS waiting lists, it’s hardly surprising people are not able to work.”
It’s therefore unsurprising that clearing the backlog, with an extra 2 million appointments a year, is now a key priority, along with increasing access to GPs and mental health services.
But what exactly does the new government have planned and can the new measures really reduce sickness absence? Our medical director, Dr Bernard Yew, reviews the pros and cons of four key wellbeing policies now being put into action and the implications for employers.
1. Reduce the NHS backlog to bring people back into work
2. Recruit another 8,500 mental health staff to treat stress and anxiety
3. Ensure early cancer diagnosis by doubling number of scanners
4. End the ‘8am scramble’ for GP appointments and bring back the family doctor
How can PAM Group help?
We can help you to support the health and wellbeing of your people in the following ways:
–PAM Wellness (EAP) Round-the-clock access to clinical and professional advisors, who can provide counselling and support with work, relationships, stress, anxiety, health concerns, family care, legal issues, finances and debt.
–Physio Information Line (PhIL) Helpline staffed by experienced physiotherapists, who can provide advice and exercises to prevent people from going off sick or to help facilitate a return to work. Musculoskeletal (MSK) webinars and workshops can also be provided.
–Health Screening Services to help people understand their health risks and make positive lifestyle changes, via our range of executive health screenings or Mini Wellbeing MOTs. Health screening can be delivered remotely or onsite.
–PAM OH Solutions Seamless access to multi-disciplinary clinical teams who can assess employees and consult with managers to provide reasonable adjustments that prevent two-thirds of employees from going off sick, plus help to rehabilitate those already off work.
If you would like to discuss the opportunities for reducing sickness absence across your organisation, please contact us to set up a free consultion via info@pamgroup.co.uk
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