This month, SOM hosted a peer support training workshop for members. From February, we will be letting you know who you can go to for peer support, if you need it. SOM has been approached by the National Training Programme Director (England and Wales), Dr Harj Kaul, who suggested we support junior doctors need for workplace visits as part of their training. Harj stated that training can be isolated, with limited scope to network and understand varied workplace environments. He suggested that SOM compile an up to date list of opportunities for workplace visits that we could then share with him. This would facilitate trainees visiting work environments that they would not normally have access to. So, if you have workplace visit opportunities please do send the following information:
1) Details of the workplace
2) The lead workplace visit organiser (who would be happy to set up/supervise a workplace visit
for a number of trainees) with contact details
3) The suggested frequency the visit could occur (e.g. once per year / once every 18 months)
4) The limit to numbers e.g. six trainees only etc. to Natalie.Elmitt@som.org.uk. I am sure youagree this initiative will be a useful support to future occupational medicine professionals.
SOM were at the British Psychological Society (BPS) Occupational Health section conference this month (with Dr Sally Coomber being part of a panel discussion and a SOM stand). We were pleased that subsequently SOM and BPS issued a joint press release about the Prime Minister’s initiative toimprove mental health support in the workplace. Teresa May has tasked Lord Stevenson, and PaulFarmer (CEO of MIND), to create a new partnership with industry, and make prevention and breaking stigma top priorities for employers.
I also have a meeting with the head of the Welsh health committee to make the case for investment in occupational health and medicine; and Sally and I will be in Northern Ireland at the regional group AGM and meeting key Government officials. SOM is also hosting an event with the Royal Society of Medicine event on 10th May, with an aim for participants to understand international companies approach to healthcare in their workforce; the uncertainties of Brexit on UK workplace health and global work, and future global health risks (booking details to follow).
With all best wishes for 2017!
Nick Pahl
Nick.Pahl@SOM.org.uk Tel 0203 478 1047