IOSH statement on Get Britain Working plan

The Government’s white paper is a welcome step forward. Far too many people are not benefiting from good work. This has a negative effect not only for them, but also for employers and the economy.

The plans outlined in the white paper answer some of the calls IOSH made in its pre-election manifesto. These include:

• focusing on and leading with strategies that prevent work-related ill health
• making workplaces inclusive
• equipping people with skills – including health and safety skills – for the future.

Our members are occupational health and safety professionals who already enable safe and healthy work. They will be at the forefront of turning these plans into action, driving change on the ground and working collaboratively with other specialists within their businesses.

Support small businesses

However, we would like to see greater emphasis on supporting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). We want to ensure they have the resources to invest in prevention, early intervention and rehabilitation around occupational health, including mental health.

Department for Work and Pensions research shows only 18% of people employed by an SME have access to occupational health services, compared with 45% of workers overall. This is significantly lower than in comparable countries.

Don’t forget older workers

The Government rightly focuses on young people. But we want to ensure that older workers are not forgotten. Their skills, knowledge and experience are invaluable, not least in how they can mentor younger people entering the workforce. IOSH is keen to support the Government’s plans to ensure older workers remain in and return to work and can continue to contribute and thrive in the workplace.

This is the start of what could be a transformative journey, one which can lead to a brighter, healthier and safer future where millions more people benefit from good work. Let’s make change happen.