Case Study

Learn how Livability (NASH College) has reduced sickness absence by 50%

“Since working with Occupational Health our sickness absence has reduced by over a
half.”
Mo Obadare, HR Manager.

The 200 Nash College staff put such energy into ensuring that their 64 disabled students have a great experience at college, it’s a wonder they have time to look after themselves. But they manage, with the efforts of their HR department and InterHealth Occupational Health.

Based on the outskirts of the London Borough of Bromley, Nash is a further education college for young people with severe learning difficulties. An educational hub during the day, Nash also has residential students and a lively social life. Mo was full of praise for InterHealth, speaking gratefully of times when HR had needed to contact InterHealth at less than a day’s notice, and had always found InterHealth to be responsive and willing to help. She made special mention of the informative OH reports - promptly delivered within 24 hours.

In August 2008, Nash referred several employees with musculoskeletal problems
to InterHealth. Annette Chorley (OH Manager), curious about why a cluster of these referrals had been received, discussed these with Mo Obadare and
visited Nash to assess. Upon arrival, it became apparent that Nash College was a large site based on a steep hill. The College staff undertake a great deal of manual handling as many of the students are wheelchair bound and require daily assistance with mobility and personal care.

Since then, Annette has been visiting Nash whenever a consultation is needed. This means that employees do not have to travel into central London, saving Nash time and money. Previously Nash had to relieve staff from duty for a day and arrange bank staff cover. Proactive manual handling training together with risk assessments and prompt OH reviews have helped to reduce sickness absence.