We are delighted to share with you the full report and associated infographics from the Healthy Working Life Programme, developed as part of the West Yorkshire Health and Growth Accelerator.
The report highlights the critical relationship between work and health, recognising that good work provides much more than financial security. Positive employment can enhance physical and mental wellbeing, offering purpose, identity, social connection, routine and a sense of contribution to society.
At the same time, the findings acknowledge the significant challenges facing the UK workforce, including rising levels of long-term sickness, increasing economic inactivity and more complex health needs. These issues have brought renewed focus to the role that health plays in enabling people to remain in, and return to, work.
As you are aware, for the health and care sector, these challenges are particularly significant. A healthy workforce is essential not only for delivering high-quality services, but also for supporting population health outcomes and wider economic prosperity. Workforce wellbeing should therefore be viewed as a strategic priority, encompassing workforce sustainability, public health and economic growth.
New Light Insights was commissioned as the independent research and insight partner for the programme’s Pillar 1 work (focusing on health and social car workforce), bringing together learning from across West Yorkshire to identify key opportunities and recommendations for future workforce policy and practice.
The report and infographics provide valuable evidence and practical insights to inform our approach to workforce wellbeing, retention, productivity and long-term sustainability across the health and care system.
If you have any questions/queries please do not hesitate to contact michelle.stanley1@nhs.net