26.10.17
‘Significant role’ for NHS in mental health support in workplace
The NHS is well-placed to have a “significant role” in providing mental health support in the workplace.
A report – commissioned by the prime minister – has suggested that 300,000 people with long-term mental health problems lose their job every year. The rate for this is significantly higher than for people with physical health conditions.
In addition, the ‘Thriving at Work’ review claims 15% of people currently at work have symptoms of an existing mental health condition.
Produced by Lord Dennis Stevenson and Paul Farmer, the report sets out six “mental health core standards” which are recommended for any employer. However, it refers specifically to the work the NHS could do in aiding people with conditions.
Projections show the scale of mental health issues to government – an estimated £24-£27bn each year – but specifies £3bn in costs which directly hit the NHS.
The review suggests the NHS could be involved in ensuring support is accessible to people, while also fitting things around work so that less staff are forced to take time off.
Sean Duggan, chief executive of the Mental Health Network, which is part of the NHS Confederation, said he was pleased with the report for keeping mental health in the public eye and prioritising employees.
“We welcome this report’s approach to prioritising the mental health of the workforce and keeping mental health high on the healthcare agenda,” Duggan added.
“Key to alleviating some of the pressures we are currently seeing within the mental health sector is the support offered to individuals before they reach crisis. Empowering employees to look after their own mental health is a crucial step towards this.
“The evidence shows that improving employee mental health is both beneficial to the individual and good for business, paying dividends in terms of morale, retention and productivity.”
To preface the report, Stevenson and Farmer wrote: “The UK could and should be one of the leading nations in relation to mental health.
“If the UK prioritises mental health at work, we can become global leaders in reducing stigma, improving the mental health of the population and support for those who need it, and in the process, improve the UK’s productivity.
“We very much hope that the government is able to implement our recommendations, measure the results and make a long-term commitment to improving mental health at work.”
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