Scottish employers, particularly the NHS itself, should be making
occupational health a top priority, according to Scotland’s minister for health
and community care Susan Deacon.
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Speaking at the conference, Deacon stressed the importance of the workplace
in improving health. She said it was essential employers recognise the impact
OH professionals could have on helping Scotland improve its poor health record.
The minister faced criticism from delegates about the lack of funding to
train more OH professionals. The Scottish Parliament will spend £2m over the
next two years to enhance OH services in smaller to medium-size businesses. An
OH resource pack will be made available across Scotland and a pilot telephone
helpline set up linking SMEs with OH experts in the NHS.
