Pilot health project launched for small businesses

Date: 8th April 2008

The government is set to spend £11 million on a number of pilot occupational health projects, aimed at small businesses.

A total of six projects will be given funding, in areas including Merseyside, East London, Yorkshire and Devon, Personnel Today reports.

Business owners will receive advice from the NHS on a range of issues, aimed at promoting physical and mental wellbeing among employees.

Welcoming the announcement, health minister Ivan Lewis said: "The funding of these schemes highlights the importance of occupational health services and their important role in supporting health, safety and wellbeing in both the workforce and the community."

Government funding has also been awarded to the London NHS Trust, which will begin developing a centre dedicated to occupational health and rehabilitation.

Last month the government also announced plans to introduce "wellbeing tax incentives" to help injured employees rehabilitate through "non-medical" therapies and return to work