Events

FREE for ALL (please log in on the SOM website first). 

Tackling sickness presenteeism in organisations: What can be done? 

Professor Gail Kinman and Dr. Christine Grant

Awareness of sickness presenteeism and its impact on employees and organisations is growing. Research shows a rise in presenteeism, particularly for mental health issues, with healthcare workers and home-based employees especially vulnerable. Although working while not fully fit can be beneficial, dysfunctional presenteeism poses significant health and safety risks. It can delay recovery, increase the risk of future health problems and absenteeism, and reduce productivity. Sickness presenteeism can also lead to errors, accidents and injuries, impacting not only the sick employee but also their colleagues and the public. This can be particularly harmful in roles involving the wellbeing and safety of others. To address dysfunctional presenteeism effectively, systemic, evidence-based interventions are required. 

This webinar examines sickness presenteeism using insights from the recently published SOM guide and  the authors’ own research. It considers the prevalence of sickness presenteeism, the contributing factors and its impact on employee wellbeing and productivity. Research from the education and security sectors is used to illustrate the varied causes and impact of presenteeism across different organisational contexts. A range of evidence-based strategies is presented to help organisations mitigate the harmful effects of presenteeism and promote a ‘healthier’ approach to sickness absence.

The critical role of occupational health practitioners in managing dysfunctional presenteeism is explored, along with practical strategies to address this issue. Time is also allocated for questions and discussion about this important challenge. 

Chair: Dr Charlie Vivian

FREE for ALL. You will then be sent the joining link.

Society of Occupational Medicine and Royal Society of Medicine joint meeting

Venue: Royal Society of Medicine, 1 Wimpole Street, Marylebone, London, W1G 0AE

In today’s rapidly changing world, the intersection of health and employment is more critical than ever. This one-day conference brings together leading experts to address the pressing challenges and opportunities facing professionals in occupational health and related fields. 

Why is it important? 
With workplaces evolving due to technological advances, shifts in workforce demographics, and global and national health trends, staying informed on how these changes impact health and employment is essential for delivering effective support and policies. 

Why now? 
As we navigate post-pandemic realities, a growing emphasis on employee well-being, and complex legislative changes, there has never been a more crucial time to unite and share knowledge. 

Broader context: 
This event situates occupational health within the larger framework of workforce sustainability, public health, and organisational performance, offering unique perspectives from diverse leaders and experts in the field. 

Why you won't want to miss this event: 

- A unique opportunity to hear from high-profile speakers with expertise spanning research, policymaking, and practical occupational health delivery.
- Insight into current trends and future directions in health and employment, not readily available elsewhere. 
- A multidisciplinary audience fostering networking and collaboration across HR, healthcare, and occupational health sectors. 

Learning outcomes: 
Participants will leave with a deeper understanding of emerging challenges, innovative approaches, and actionable insights to adapt to this era of rapid change—knowledge not easily replicated at competing events. This conference is a must-attend for anyone committed to advancing health and well-being in the workplace during times of transition.

Discounted rate for SOM members. For further details and to book, visit the RSM website.

FREE for SOM Members (please log in on the SOM website first). 

Session details:

-    How might the Equality Act 2010 provisions apply to someone with a neurodiversity? 
-    Key case law 
-    One or two case studies depending on what time might permit. 

Synopsis
It is estimated that 15 to 20% of the UK population is neurodivergent, translating to around 1 in 7 people or 13 million people. These statistics mean that it most workplaces have a significant neurodivergent workforce, whether they are aware of it or not.

Awareness around neurodiversity in the workplace has gained significant momentum in recent years. Many individuals do not receive diagnoses until late in their careers, or, even with a diagnosis, they may choose not to declare it to their employer or to their work colleagues.  This can create significant issues from a legal, reputational and cultural perspective.  We have seen these exemplified in employment tribunal claims relating to neurodiversity discrimination; they often arise from a basic misunderstanding between the neurodivergent employee and their manager, leading to a deterioration of their relationship and resultant dispute which could arguably be prevented through effective management, awareness and training.

Chaired by Professor Nancy Doyle, Emma Bartlett (Partner and employment lawyer from CM Murray LLP), this webinar will be exploring the following topics: 
•    What is neurodiversity and how does neurodiversity fit into our disability legislation under the Equality Act 2010?
•    A review of the case law in this area and lessons to be learned from them. 
•    Practical tips on recruiting neurodivergent staff.
 

 
Speaker bio:

Emma Bartlett, Partner, CM Murray LLP
Emma Bartlett is a Partner specialising in employment and partnership law at CM Murray LLP. Emma is also D&I lead at the firm.

Emma advises on a varied cross-section of employment law matters, including unlawful discrimination, whistleblowing, equal pay, unfair dismissal, breach of contract, restrictive covenants, protecting confidential information, boardroom and partner disputes and claims under TUPE. She has particular expertise in dispute resolution and litigation, notably discrimination, bonus, whistleblowing and trade union issues. She is a specialist in contentious discrimination matters and handling high-value contentious claims for employers and senior individuals.
Emma acts for employers, senior executives, partners, partnerships, LLP members, LLPs and trade unions/associations. Her broad client base spans several key sectors, including financial services, professional services (including legal and architectural), surgical, pharmaceutical/biotech and design/media. Amongst these clients are a number of growing, dynamic businesses (including UK start-ups), as well as long-established financial institutions.

As a litigator, Emma’s knowledge is underpinned by a strategic approach to negotiations – representing clients in the High Court and in tribunal cases, including in obtaining, executing and defending interim injunctions against former employees alleged to have breached confidentiality provisions.

Emma frequently publishes articles and is quoted in relevant trade publications, such as International Employment Lawyer (IEL), and the national press and most recently has spoken on BBC Radio 4’s Today Programme, Radio 5, Radio 2’s Woman’s Hour, LBC and BBC regional news on various employment issues including the use of NDAs/confidentiality clauses, harassment, positive action in recruitment, and the menopause. Emma is also general editor of Thompson Reuters, Employment Precedents and Company Policy Documents and records podcast series relating to board diversity and legal issues faced by women in sport.

Chair: Professor Nancy Doyle

FREE for SOM Members (please log in on the SOM website). You will then be sent the join link.

FOR SOM MEMBERS ONLY £22

We have secured a tour and tasting visit to the Shepherd Neame brewery in Kent on Wed 4th June 2025 at 2PM. This is the oldest brewer in Britain so will be a fasinating experience for members.

No occupational health person is on site, howeve a risk assessment will be shared by the H&S officer.

You are welcome to take photos around the brewery and the tour guide can also inform on number of employees and working hours.

Spaces are limited to the first 14 SOM members to book on.

You can find out more online here https://www.shepherdneame.co.uk/visitor-centre/brewery-tours

SOM Members ONLY. If you are not a member, please join here https://www.som.org.uk/membership