Employers Must Monitor Workloads to Protect Staff Wellbeing, Says UNISON
Following the release of Sir Charlie Mayfield’s Keep Britain Working review on the impact of ill health on the workforce, UNISON general secretary Christina McAnea emphasized the importance of supporting workers' health.
“It’s in all our interests that workers keep well and are supported back to their jobs should they fall ill or get injured. Prevention is key to stopping staff being signed off in the first place. That means managers providing the right help early on.”
Supporting Workers with Disabilities
According to McAnea, a major focus for employers should be retaining employees with disabilities by ensuring workplace adjustments are suitable and implemented swiftly. She stated:
“A top priority for employers should be keeping people with disabilities in jobs. Robust standards must be introduced to make sure adjustments to their workplaces are suitable and happen quickly.”
Improving Sick Pay to Protect Health
McAnea also highlighted the importance of raising statutory sick pay to prevent staff from attending work while unwell, which jeopardizes their own health and the wellbeing of colleagues.
“Raising statutory sick pay would stop staff from going into work when they’re poorly, risking their health and that of their colleagues.”
Summary
UNISON stresses that early manager support, quick workplace adaptations for disabled employees, and increased sick pay are vital to protect staff wellbeing and maintain a healthy workforce.
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