Support for teachers returning to work
8 Aug 2008
Teacher Support Network today welcomed a report that suggested the 90 per cent of people with health problems can be helped to return to work by following a few principles of good health care and work place management.
The report, entitled ‘Vocational Rehabilitation: What works, for whom, and when?’ encourages workplaces to accommodate people returning to their jobs in addition to calling for healthcare to include a focus on work.
The research follows the publication of guidance issued by the DCSF, ‘Common mental health problems: Supporting school staff by taking positive action’ that Teacher Support Network helped to write.
The guidance makes several recommendations, including phasing the return to work, allowing flexible working hours and introducing additional classroom support for teachers who have been absent.
Teacher Support Network Chief Executive, Patrick Nash, said: ‘The research is very much in line with our thinking on health and work. A wide variety of ailments – both mental and physical – need not prevent someone doing their job. In schools, as everywhere, there needs to be a change in culture that allows those able to work to return – easing the transition from time off to being back in the classroom.
‘Any changes should not mean those who need time away from work are forced back before they are ready. Nevertheless, we hope the Government can help schools and other employers to be accommodating towards those who have been unwell.’
