The Scottish Trades Union Congress (STUC) today (Wednesday, 11 February) published the first in a series of policy papers aimed at meeting the challenges of the current recession in the short, medium and long term.

‘Occupational Health in Scotland’ makes the case for a massive expansion in publicly provided occupational health services to end the unacceptable level of workers falling into economic inactivity following periods of ill-health and to increase the number of workers being rehabilitated back into the workplace.

STUC General Secretary Grahame Smith said;

“During previous recessions we witnessed massive increases in the number of workers becoming incapacitated, many of whom were never to work again.

“We need a step change in public provision so that Government ambitions to support people into work can be realistically achieved. Unfortunately comprehensive occupational provision is still the exception rather than the rule, and services to smaller employers and their workers are particularly sparse.

Adding that it was the responsibility of business to make a contribution to effective occupational health services, Smith said:

“Scottish Courts provide comprehensive occupational health provision aimed at early intervention, rehabilitation and supporting workers in the workplace. They estimate the cost of providing this service at £80 per member of staff per annum, a cost that we believe most businesses could afford.”

ENDS

For further information contact Ian Tasker Assistant Secretary STUC

0141 337 8100

To download a copy of the paper in pdf format click here

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