From firefighting to future-proofing: Why strategic OH is your hidden HR superpower

Every organisation ultimately wants the same thing for its people – to keep them safe, supported and thriving at work. For HR and Occupational Health (OH), that’s a shared mission.

While HR focuses on shaping culture, supporting people strategies and managing employee relations, OH brings specialist clinical expertise to help businesses manage health risks and safeguard wellbeing. On their own, both make an impact, but together, they’re far stronger.

Each year in the UK, 1.7 million workers experience work-related ill health, leading to over 33 million lost working days. More than half of these cases are linked to stress, depression or anxiety (HSE). For HR professionals striving to protect employee wellbeing and performance, partnering with OH is essential.

HR and OH – Different strengths, shared purpose

HR professionals are often the first port of call when employees face challenges, whether related to performance, wellbeing or absence. Their role is to guide, support and ensure policies are fair and consistent.

OH, meanwhile, are often the backbone of employee wellbeing. Their role is to provide independent, expert medical advice – from absence management and mental health support to assessing fitness for work and recommending workplace adjustments.

Both share the same overall aim of keeping people in work, safe and well, and when working together, the benefits multiply.

The power of partnership

When HR and OH collaborate, both employees and employers reap the benefits:

• For employees: quicker access to the right support, tailored solutions, improved health and wellbeing, and reassurance that their employer genuinely cares.
• For employers: lower absence, reduced staff turnover, improved engagement, greater productivity – and stronger business outcomes.

Considering 3.7 million people in the UK are living with work-limiting health conditions (The Health Foundation), supporting employees effectively is key to a successful, healthy organisation. The return on investment is proven too, with research showing an average of £5 back for every £1 invested in workplace mental health interventions.

Join our live panel for Occupational Health Awareness Week 2025

Occupational Health isn’t just about managing cases – when used strategically, it can transform how your business supports its people. In this 60-minute live session, Medigold leaders Alex Goldsmith (CEO), Katie Wery (Chief People Officer) and will share honest insight into how OH can:

• Boost retention, wellbeing and performance
• Reduce organisational risk and protect your business
• Deliver measurable ROI when embedded at a strategic level
• Help HR teams put the right adjustments in place at the right time

Expect myth-busting, practical takeaways, and a live Q&A to put your questions to the panel. Plus, all attendees will receive a free downloadable guide packed with highlights and advice to take back to their organisations.

Follow the link to secure your place today – and start seeing OH as the strategic partner it was always meant to be. http://bit.ly/4n7toTz