Advice by King's Lynn human resources business on how to handle employees' health issues

Recently we were contacted by a local business, in Lynn, who faced a difficult problem with one of its employees.

The employee was suffering with mental health issues and revealed that he was having suicidal thoughts.

For a small business it can be difficult to know what to do or how to handle employee health issues so seeking help from a third party is a sensible course of action.

We contacted one of our partners, an occupational health specialist, who was able to quickly book the employee in to see an occupational health doctor.

The employee was seen the next day and received the assessment needed. The employer, who was genuinely shaken, was guided and supported on the best course of action, including what practical steps he needs to take when the person returns to work.

We know that men find it difficult to talk. In the USA men make up over 75 per cent of suicide victims, with those in small towns and in rural areas particularly at risk. While in the UK it is reported that about one in four people experience a mental health problem each year, and a recent survey revealed that one in seven people in Norfolk are living with depression or anxiety. Mental health is in the news, and it has touched many of us directly, or our friends or family.

Thankfully this once taboo subject is now more openly discussed – specialist help is available through the NHS and with charities such as MIND, and it is good to know that employers, including small local employers, are taking their responsibility seriously and ready to take appropriate action.

Human Capital Department is thinking of organising a seminar on this topic involving a consultant psychiatrist and mental health practitioner. Let me know if this is something that you would be interested in. Contact me via email info@humancapitaldept.com or call 01553 609968.