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Supporting Staff with Long-Term Conditions

There are numerous resources available to help employers provide the necessary support to employees managing long-term health conditions. This section provides an overview of key resources, services and information.

Government and NHS Resources

  • Support with Employee Health and Disability: Developed by the Department of Work and Pensions to help employers and managers provide better support to disabled people and those with chronic health conditions, in the workplace. The service is particularly aimed at smaller businesses, many of which do not have in-house human resources or occupational health support.
  • Access to Work: A government-funded programme that provides financial support and practical advice for making workplace adjustments to support disabled employees, including those with chronic health conditions.
  • Health Adjustment Passport: Can be used by people who are disabled or have a chronic health condition that makes it harder for them to move into work or stay in a job. It can support a person to identify what support and changes (known as reasonable adjustments) may be needed when in work or moving into work.
  • Fit Note: Guidance to help employers and employees manage sickness absence and support staff with long-term conditions to remain in or return to work.
  • Equality and Human Rights Commission: Offers guidance on employers' legal obligations under the Equality Act 2010, including making reasonable adjustments for employees who are disabled and have chronic health conditions.
  • Health and Safety Executive (HSE): Provides resources on managing health and safety at work, including advice on supporting employees who are disabled and have chronic health conditions.
  • In-Work Support Service: Provides rapid access to tailored occupational therapy, physiotherapy and psychological therapy services, designed to help employed or self-employed people return to work or manage a health condition in work due to a mental health problem or musculoskeletal problem.

Support Organisations

  • Business Disability Forum: Offers consultancy, training and resources to help organisations become more inclusive and supportive of disabled employees.
  • Mind Cymru: Provides resources and support for mental health conditions as well as workplace wellbeing initiatives and training programmes.
  • Diabetes UK: Offers comprehensive support for employees managing diabetes, including advice on workplace adjustments and managing diabetes at work.
  • Macmillan Cancer Support: Provides resources for supporting employees with cancer, including legal rights, financial support and workplace adjustments.
  • Arthritis Research UK: Offers guidance on supporting employees with arthritis and musculoskeletal conditions, including workplace adaptations and self-management resources.