Work and Employment

“People whose ability to work is at risk, including through ill health or disability, should be helped to remain in work or make a timely return to working. Individuals who have never worked and have the potential to do so should be supported to develop their aspirations and capabilities, so they can gain the health, self-worth and the social and economic benefits good work provides.”

2019 Healthcare Professionals Consensus Statement for Action Statement for Health and Work

Employment is an important factor for health, directly and indirectly.
Being in good work is better for your health than being out of work. ‘Good work’ is defined as having a safe and secure job with good working hours and conditions, supportive management and opportunities for training and development.
Unemployment can harm health, and poor health makes it harder to find or sustain employment.

For many individuals, in particular those with long-term conditions such as mental health problems, musculoskeletal (MSK) conditions and disabilities, heath issues can be a barrier to gaining and retaining employment.

Ask
I have heard you talk about/mention…
•Social isolation
•Poor mental health and wellbeing
•Poor physical health or having a disability
•Money worries
•Food insecurity
•Challenges in using public transport or travelling to attend work, appointments, activities and social events

 
Do you mind if I ask you if you are you in work at the moment?
or
May I ask where do you work/what do you do?


If in work / Self employed
•Are there challenges for you to remain in work?

In employment but off sick
  • What support do you think you might need in getting back into work?
  • How do you feel about going back to work?

Not in work / Job seeking for more alternative work (nor retired or in full time education)
 
•What support do you think you might need in getting into work?
•Are you getting any support with job seeking or training to help you get into work?
 

Assist
Can I share with you some information about free services that may help you in your situation?


Act
Signpost or refer the person you are supporting to free impartial and trusted sources of support such as:
(go to Further Information page for more details on these sources)