Writing Fit

The Fit for Work initiative is a terrific way to influence labour and social welfare policies in the studied countries as the initiative will begin to present evidence for the benefits of early intervention in the workplace. Staff, employers and policy makers can easily identify the real benefits these improvements could make.

I know from even a quick review of the emerging evidence that there is a powerful case to be made for seeing the workplace as a site for activities and interventions to support healthy working lives. For both staff and employers we can see how these opportunities for such benefits will lead to health gains outside of work and productivity gains within it.
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Today, as workers across Europe face uncertain futures and an ever more challenging job market it’s clear to us in Arthritis Ireland, and to the employers, Trades Unions and policymakers we speak to, that employee health has never been more important. It is important as a driver of productivity and competitiveness and a waste of money for those affected not to be in the workplace.  It’s a huge mistake in the 21st century not to have these people contributing to society rather than taking.

Specifically, the Fit for Work report launched today is asking tough questions about the ways that workers with long-term and chronic conditions – especially Musculoskeletal Disorders (MSDs) - can be kept in work in a way that maximises their economic contribution and their quality of life.
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Health of Ireland’s workforce is undermining our competitiveness

Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) cause 50% of absences from work and costs Irish economy €750 million annually yet early diagnosis and intervention could keep more Irish workers Fit For Work

DUBLIN, 7^th May: Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs), including back pain, work- related upper-limb disorder and rheumatic diseases including arthritis, are the cause of 50 percent of sick days in Ireland costing the economy an estimated €750 million each year. But early detection and intervention can reduce the burden on the Government’s health and disability budgets. The report, published by The Work Foundation based in the UK, presents evidence that work is good for your health and adopting an approach that focuses on capacity rather than incapacity is also better for the employees who suffer from any of these conditions. (more…)

For more information from Edite Estrela please go to her personal blog here. You may also be interested to read an article by Edite which was published on 10th April 2009. Please go here:

Woman and Rheumatoid Arthritis