56% of line managers confident supporting long-term health conditions, data finds

Line managers confidence in supporting employees with long-term health conditions fell from 70% in 2022 to 56%, research from Working To Wellbeing found.

Its Window to the Workplace study found 53% understood the return-to-work process for affected employees, down from 65% in 2022.

Confidence in making reasonable adjustments fell from 71% to 63%.

48% believed their line manager would support them through a return-to-work process, compared with 66% in 2022.

Dr Julie Denning, chartered health psychologist and managing director at Working To Wellbeing, said: “It’s worrying that at a time when more onus is being placed on employers than ever before, in terms of supporting those with long-term conditions to get work, stay in work and thrive, confidence to do so is dropping. 

“Arguably though, line managers need to be left to get on with their jobs, instead of having to become pseudo health specialists. 

“Instead, they need ready access to Vocational Rehabilitation expertise, working alongside them and their team members where needed to provide very personalised, one-to-one, clinically proven support.”

Denning added: “Sir Charlie Mayfield’s Keep Britain Working report highlights the vital role of Vocational Rehabilitation in helping those with a long-term condition stay in work and thrive, plus return to work after absence in a way that’s sustainable.