As adults in employment spend a large proportion of their time in work, our jobs and our workplaces can have a big impact on our health and wellbeing. There is clear evidence that good work improves health and wellbeing across people’s lives, not only in terms of economics but also in terms of quality of life. ‘Good work’ means having not only a work environment that is safe, but also having a sense of security, autonomy, good line management and communication within an organisation.
There is also evidence that shows that good quality work protects against social exclusion through the provision of:
- income
- social interaction
- a core role
- identity and purpose
Conversely, there is also clear evidence that unemployment is bad for your health as it is associated with an increased risk of mortality and morbidity, including:
- limiting long-term illness
- cardiovascular disease
- poor mental health
- suicide
- health-harming behaviours
Just as unemployment can be a risk factor for various health conditions, long-term health conditions including MSK conditions such as back pain can also be the cause of unemployment. This is known as ‘health-related worklessness’.
It is important that people are supported to gain employment and maintain economic independence for themselves and their families, especially as they age. This is of particular importance for individuals with long-term conditions and disabilities, due to the barriers they face in gaining employment and retaining a job.
The Healthy Working Lives website, hosted by Public Health Scotland, has lots of information which can help employers ensure that their workplace supports positive health and wellbeing. Information includes guidance about health and safety, risk assessments, fair work and mentally healthy workplaces.
Please note, following a review of health and work services by Public Health Scotland, the range of services offered under Healthy Working Lives has changed. Public Health Scotland and NHS Boards are working together to finalise future plans and if you are registered for a Healthy Working Lives Award, your local health board team will be in contact with you.
If you are a local workplace and would like to speak to someone about what support is available locally please contact info@healthyshetland.com.