THE OPTIMAL SOLUTION
For almost two decades, a ‘whole-systems’ approach to tackling work loss due to common health problems has been called for. The concept is that health, employment and welfare systems must be integrated to ensure individuals have access to “just what’s needed, when it’s needed”, in a way which is tailored to their circumstances and needs. With this approach, most people can remain at, return to, or enter work.
THE NEED FOR ACTION
£100bn per year:
the costs the UK economy of work lost due to ill health
Who suffers?
Individuals and their families, employers and the Health and Welfare system
WE CAN AVOID THIS
if people get the right support, opportunities and advice at the right time
WE MUST DESIGN HEALTHCARE, EMPLOYMENT
AND WELFARE SYSTEMS TO SUPPORT WORK ABILITY
WHEN IS HELP NEEDED?
HOW CAN POLICY HELP?
WHAT?
HOW?
Support healthcare to become more work focused
'Smart’ fitness for work certification, occupational health training and incentives
Ensure employers understand and are equipped to support worker health
Education, tools, tax breaks and legislation
Provide a flexible welfare system
Cost-sharing the employment and healthcare systems
Promote communication across the systems
Mandatory standardized data collection requirements on work ability
Increase awareness that 'good' work is good for health
Public health campaign
Build the 'what works' evidence base
Increased research funding with requirements to collect implementation data
