Early intervention is “vital” if people are to make successful returns to work after having time off for illness or mental health issues.
The longer someone is off work, the harder and more expensive their return to work will be – and the less likely it is to succeed.
That’s according to the team at States’ Work Support, who are highlighting the role of early intervention in managing workplace sickness.
Case Manager Aaron Shepherd said: “As one of the main points of contact for people off work, it is vital that we engage early and offer what support we can in their recovery.
“Whether it be financial support or signposting to agencies and charities, the emphasis is on early intervention and support to enable them to gradually re-enter the workforce in a healthy and sustainable manner.”
Stress and anxiety
The new initiative addresses a variety of health hurdles, including musculoskeletal conditions, recovery from illness, and mental health problems.
The States says the push is a core part of the Work & Wellbeing Strategy, put together by Employment & Social Security (ESS) last year.
That document found that almost half of us suffered with “frequent work-related stress or anxiety”.
Mark Gannon, Service Lead for Benefits and Work Support, said his team’s goal was to “ensure people get the right support at the right time” to help them returning to work.
Mr Gannon added: “By taking a personalised approach, and working in partnership with employers and primary care, we can achieve better outcomes for individuals.”
People can contact the Work Support team directly on 01481 222810 or by email through worksupport@gov.gg.
