Employers are being urged to shape proposals to transform support for disabled people and those on long-term sick leave
This week marks the halfway point in the work and health consultation, which is looking at how to create healthier workplaces by supporting more employers to help disabled people and those with health conditions to stay and thrive in work.
The suggested changes would see Britain’s lowest paid employees become eligible for Statutory Sick Pay for the first time, with small businesses potentially being offered a sick pay rebate for effectively managing employees on sick leave and helping them back into work.
The government wants to evaluate the effect of its proposals on businesses, individuals and the occupational health profession and is urging them to provide feedback through the consultation, which runs for another 6 weeks.
Minister for Disabled People Justin Tomlinson said:
Each year more than 100,000 people leave work following a spell of long-term sickness absence lasting at least 4 weeks.
Other proposals include encouraging early action by employers to support individuals when they are off work, facilitating more workplace modifications, improving the availability of occupational health services and improving advice so that employers understand and are able to act to support employees.
Mike Cherry, National Chairman of the Federation of Small Businesses, said:
Ben Willmott, Head of Public Policy at the Chartered Institute for Professional Development (CIPD), said:
Read the consultation and get involved online.
The consultation closes on 7 October 2019. You can also share your views using the hashtag #workandhealth.