Suffolk Launches Good Health at Work Programme

Today, Suffolk County Council has officially launched the Good Health at Work Programme, a new initiative aimed at improving the health and wellbeing of the working-age population across Suffolk.
Published: 04 Nov 2024
Group standing holding a sign saying good health at work.
Nishma Shah – Get Set UK, Sally Howell – Get Set UK, Laura Graham-Clarke – Get Set UK, John Gear - SCC, Maureen Lews – Cashmere Coaching, Stuart Keeble – Director of Public Health and Communities, SCC, Nikki Lee – Christies Care, Ebony Thomas – Christies Care, Richard Stowe - Verifleet, Lin Smith – Get Set UK, Emma Regan - SCC, Jane Jennison – Autonomous Ideas Limited, Amy Bateman – Bateman Elegant Events, Gail Jones – Get Set UK.

Running initially for 18 months, the programme will provide essential support to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), focusing on businesses whose employees are at the highest risk of health inequalities, such as those on low incomes or with long-term health conditions. The programme will be delivered by Get Set UK, a leading people services provider.

SMEs in Suffolk are encouraged to get involved and take advantage of the range of resources now available. Key elements of the programme include:

An Online Resource Hub – This hub offers employers access to practical tools, advice, and evidence-based strategies to create healthier workplaces based on good work principles like fair pay, job security, and opportunities for growth.

An Ambassador Network – Businesses can join a community of employers committed to promoting good work practices, with opportunities to collaborate and improve their workplace using a self-assessment framework to review their workforce wellbeing practices against a set of six standards. Participants can achieve tiered recognition, starting with a bronze award upon completing the first standard and progressing to silver and gold as they advance.

A Navigator Service – Providing one-on-one support, the Navigator Service helps SMEs assess their challenges and strengths, offering tailored advice and guidance to enhance their workplace and improve employee well-being.

Healthy employees are the foundation of healthy businesses. Last year, Suffolk lost up to 2.1 million working days due to sickness absence, costing £432 million in lost productivity. Through this programme, businesses will have access to the support they need to improve employee health, boost retention, and create more productive work environments.
Councillor Steve Wiles
Councillor Steve Wiles, Cabinet Member for Public Health and Protection, said:
Healthy employees mean a healthier business. The Good Health at Work programme has been developed to help Suffolk SMEs thrive in today’s challenging environment. This new support service offers practical support and advice through free online resources and one-to-one personal business health checks. It’s a complete service for any small or medium sized business in Suffolk, looking to become a healthier, happier workplace.
Thomas Harley, CEO of Get Set UK said:

Businesses can explore the available resources and learn more about the Good Health at Work Programme by visiting www.goodhealthatwork.co.uk