Aviva comments on the Keep Britain Working report

Today the Government published its Keep Britain Working report following an independent review led by Sir Charlie Mayfield. Aviva actively engaged with the review by sharing what works for us as an employer, and an insurer in helping to keep employees healthy and supporting them to return to and stay in work following illness.

Commenting on the recommendations in the report, Dr Subashini M, Medical Director, Aviva UK Health said: “We welcome the recommendations in the Keep Britain Working report and Aviva is proud to play an active role in shaping the future of workplace health and wellbeing.

“We strongly support the report’s emphasis on prevention, early intervention, and rapid rehabilitation in the workplace. These measures are essential to tackling economic inactivity and improving the health and resilience of the UK workforce.

“We welcome the partnership approach recommended in the report. By working together, employers and Government can deliver meaningful change improving the health of the UK workforce and helping more people stay well and at work.

“Supporting employee health and wellbeing is not only vital for individuals, but fundamental to the long-term sustainability and growth of UK businesses.

“Group private medical insurance and group income protection play a critical role in this effort. The report highlights the importance of active case management, return to work plans and rehabilitation services in helping employees return to work when there is an ill-health absence. In fact, it goes further by saying there should be widespread adoption by UK employers of this approach to supporting employees.^[1] This approach is fundamental to the group income protection offer and so we are pleased to see this highlighted as best practice and for Government to agree its use should be widespread.

“The report also focuses on prevention and early-intervention to actively support the wellbeing of employees which are key aspects of group private medical insurance. When used effectively, both can help to reduce absence, improve productivity, and contribute to a healthier, more resilient workforce.

“Aviva is pleased to be named among the employers expressing interest in becoming a Vangaurd as part of the new Workplace Health Intelligence Unit (WHIU).

“We are pleased to see the intention to use the data and evidence collated from the Vanguard phase to inform future workplace health standards as this is something we have called for.^[2]  

“The three-year Vanguard phase will inform how Government decides to drive wider adoption of the Healthy Working Lifecycle and Workplace Health Provision model, including the use of future employer incentives.

“Overall, the report is a truly positive step for employers and providers alike, will improve employee workplace health and we look forward to continuing to share our insight and playing an active role in helping to build a healthier, more productive workforce across the UK.”

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References:

^1. _{Referred to in the report as the Workplace Health Provision Model. [↑]}

^2. _{Referred to in the report as the Healthy Working Lifecycle. [↑]}

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