Pages 17–33. Meaningful conversations Although line managers play an important role in referring cases to OH, they can do more to enhance the wellbeing of staff by having ‘meaningful conversations’ with their employees. Such conversations can ensure that strictly management issues are not ‘medicalised’ and that the role of OH is optimised. Line managers will need training to ensure they have the necessary skills. 

ADDITIONAL CPD 

The following articles, news and research items are suggested reading for CPD and professional revalidation. Subscribers can complete their online Personal Learning Zone CPD record at here 

Page 4-5. NICE has released a new guideline on mental wellbeing at work. It emphasises the need to address mental health strategically, rather than organisations simply reacting as problems emerge.

Page 7. The UK government has said that, from 1 April 2022, employers will no longer be required to explicitly consider COVID-19 in their health and safety risk assessments.

Pages 8–9. Occupational health professionals should prioritise the return-to-work needs of cancer patients, and ensure they and their HR colleagues converse with individual employees to discuss their specific needs.

Pages 10–12. The EAT has upheld an employment tribunal decision in Judd v Cabinet Office that, on the facts of the case, it was proportionate for a employer to refuse a disabled employee’s overseas secondment on the grounds of protecting her health and safety.

Pages 32–36. In demonstrating the value of occupational health services, it is important to look at the cost-effectiveness of interventions, rather than trying to demonstrate a cost–benefit.

Pages 40–42. Our compendium of recent research includes an evaluation of the economic burden of musculoskeletal (MSK) pain at a major UK employer, the practicalities and effectiveness of an arm-support exoskeleton to help prevent MSK disorders and an analysis of how employers can optimise employee wellbeing in ‘hybrid’ working patterns.