Written question WQ84745
- Asked by
- Russell GeorgeConservative
- To be answered by
- Minister for Health and Social Services
- Tabled
- Due
- Answered
- Time to answer
- 12 days
Question
Will the Minister confirm whether a national strategy for occupational health in the NHS workforce has been developed or updated in the last ten years; and whether there are plans to develop an occupational health improvement strategy for the NHS in Wales similar to those in other UK nations?
Answer
Answered by Minister for Health and Social Services
During the pandemic, OH Services in all our NHS Wales organisations have played a key role in supporting our workforce, adapting rapidly to respond appropriately and provide targeted interventions and assessment. All staff in NHS Wales have access to occupational health services should they be required, alongside a suite of well-being resources. Welsh Government currently do not hold data on waiting times for occupational health services.
A review of Occupational Health (OH) services across Wales commissioned by health boards reported findings and recommendations in March 2020. It is clear that future developments of OH services need to take into account the change in context and service delivery models since the publication of the review, build on lessons learnt during the pandemic and make the most of new and innovative work that is happening nationally.
Officials have established a working group in partnership with health board and trade union colleagues to consider further appropriate development of OH services for Wales. Officials will shortly be requesting information from all NHS Wales organisations to ensure that we have the most up to date assessment of service capacity and demand. This will include an assessment of barriers to accessing services including waiting times.