AECC University College is taking an innovative approach to address labour shortages in the workplace by offering Health MOTs to companies and their employees. The Health MOTs, comprehensive health assessments, are designed to help employers identify and address health issues among their employees, ultimately improving productivity and reducing days lost through illness.
The current labour shortage is a growing concern for businesses across various industries. According to the latest data from the Office for National Statistics (2022), up to 46.5 million working days were lost in the UK in 2021 due to reasons including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and mental illnesses such as stress, among others. To combat this, companies need to take a proactive approach in improving the health and wellbeing of their employees to protect against burnout, sickness, and absenteeism.
The Health MOTs offered by AECC University College include a range of assessments, including blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood glucose concentrations. These assessments are carried out in their new £4.5m Integrated Rehabilitation Centre by highly qualified clinicians who provide personalized advice and guidance to help employees make positive lifestyle changes. This proactive approach to health management is essential in improving employee wellbeing, which in turn leads to a more productive and engaged workforce.
The benefits of investing in employee health and wellbeing are clear. Office for National Statistics (2022) data also shows that 86.7 million days of work were missed in 2021 due to long-term conditions, with a further 58.4 million lost as a result of other health conditions. In the private sector, 100.1 million working days were lost due to ill-health with a higher percentage of absence in males. Health MOTs can be highly beneficial to businesses, as employers can gain an understanding of the health profile of their entire workforce and introduce targeted interventions to improve it. Additionally, businesses that offer health and wellness programs are more likely to attract and retain employees, which is crucial in a highly competitive job market.
AECC University College’s Health MOTs are an excellent example of how universities can play a vital role in supporting businesses and addressing societal challenges. By working in partnership with local businesses, universities can apply their expertise and knowledge to create practical solutions that benefit individuals, businesses, and society as a whole.
AECC University College’s Health MOTs are a practical and effective solution to address labour shortages in the workplace. By investing in employee health and wellbeing, businesses can improve productivity, reduce absenteeism, and attract and retain talented employees. It is essential that more businesses follow this example to create a healthier and more productive workforce.