Employers must monitor workloads to protect staff wellbeing, says UNISON | Article, News, Press release | News

Employers Must Monitor Workloads to Protect Staff Wellbeing

UNISON's Response to the Keep Britain Working Review

UNISON’s general secretary, Christina McAnea, responded to the publication of Sir Charlie Mayfield’s Keep Britain Working review, which examines the impact of ill health on the workforce. She emphasized that both workers and employers benefit when the workforce remains healthy and receives support after illness or injury.

“It’s in all our interests that workers keep well and are supported back to their jobs should they fall ill or get injured. Prevention is key to stopping staff being signed off in the first place. That means managers providing the right help early on.”

McAnea stressed that a key responsibility for employers is ensuring employees with disabilities remain in employment. This requires introducing strong standards so that workplace adjustments are appropriate and implemented without delay.

“A top priority for employers should be keeping people with disabilities in jobs. Robust standards must be introduced to make sure adjustments to their workplaces are suitable and happen quickly.”

She also called for an increase in statutory sick pay to discourage employees from working while ill, protecting their own wellbeing and that of their colleagues.

“Raising statutory sick pay would stop staff from going into work when they’re poorly, risking their health and that of their colleagues.”

Author’s Summary

UNISON urges employers to prioritize staff wellbeing through early support, accessible workplaces, and fair sick pay to promote healthier, more resilient teams.

UNISON — 2025-11-05