EXCLUSIVE: 44% of line managers unsure how to support staff with long-term illness, survey finds

44% of line managers are not confident or are unsure of how best to supportsom eone at work with a long-term health condition. 

Dr Julie Denning, health psychologist and managing director of Working To Wellbeing, said vocational rehabilitation can help people stay in work much earlier, not just when they are returning after long-term illness.

Vocational rehabilitation is often seen as a return-to-work support service, but, according to Denning, it could be used throughout the work journey. 

She said this could become essential for workplaces if Sir Charlie Mayfield’s Keep Britain Working recommendations are followed, including his recent call for workplace health checks for new starters to reduce sickness absence and support people to stay in work.

Denning said: “A health check with a framework around it that ensures those experiencing health challenges get the right support, from their line managers and the wider workplace environment, could be very valuable indeed.”

Dr Anuska Randolph-Stephens, chartered health psychologist and clinical director at Working To Wellbeing, said: “It’s important health checks are not seen as just another box-ticking exercise. 

“And that they’re extended to the entire workforce; existing employees as well as onboarders. 

“A framework is needed, around the health check, to ensure those with health conditions get the individualised support they need, with ongoing monitoring and adjustments over time.”