New strategy aims to boost workforce wellbeing

Mark Gannon said the strategy aims to map out the support and occupational health services that could be available to people

A new five-year plan has been launched aiming to improve the health and wellbeing of Guernsey's workforce

The States of Guernsey 's Work and Wellbeing Strategy is designed to help islanders with health conditions or disabilities to stay in or return to work.

It focuses on prevention, early intervention and better collaboration between the government, employers, health professionals and the third sector.

Deputy Tina Bury, member of the Committee for Employment & Social Security, said: "People are better off, in terms of their wellbeing, if they are able to stay in work or the sooner they can return to work, the easier it will be for them."

'Personal journey'

The strategy builds on the existing SOHWELL Programme, which the States said led to improvements in early intervention and return-to-work support.

According to States figures, muscular, skeletal and mental health conditions account for around 60% of sickness benefit claims.

Mark Gannon, team lead for benefits and work support, said: "We know that sickness is a personal journey and everyone will experience something different, so we will map out the support and occupational health services that could be available to somebody who has a particular health challenge."

He continued: "We hope to provide advice about what reasonable adjustments could look like and how employers could implement this to support somebody back to work."

A key focus of the strategy is helping people return to work gradually, with personalised support and new training for GPs.

The States said 51% of businesses did not use occupational health services, often due to lack of awareness.

The strategy also includes plans to pilot mid-life health checks, improve digital access to services and provide toolkits and training for employers.

The strategy will run until 2030 hoping to reduce long-term sickness claims and support a more inclusive and productive workforce.