Occupational health

[Smiler69]

Hi everyone,

I have recently got a new position and because of my Fibromyalgia and Rheumatoid Arthritis, I have to have an Occupational health assessment. Any ideas what I should expect etc? I’m worried I won’t get the job.

many thanks,

Xx

[Dinkie]

I'v had occupational health assessment for my current job. It was done in 2017 and I'm still managing to cope with the workload. I didn't want to have the assessment but my employers insisted. It really wasn't that bad.

We had a chat about what reasonable adjustments I may need, suitable chair, car parking space outside the door so I didn't have to walk far, modified uniform (no small buttons, and nothing that needed putting over the head as I can't lift my arms up) I work longer in summer than winter as I can't drive in the dark. I can take extra breaks if I need to but I have never done so. It was all very easy although there were comments from colleagues but once they realised that actually I do pull my weight and go the extra mile they are fine with it.

[Blearyeyed]

My daughter had an occupational work assessment through work and it couldn't have worked out better for her.The person whom did the assessment knew more about Fibro and Ehlers Danlos Syndrome than most of the doctors have that we have seen.

They were particularly considerate and because of the assessment her hours were changed to start and finish times which were more suitable for her travel needs, her role was adapted so that she could work in a less physical role, she was given access to longer breaks and a suitable chair, her management team were contacted on her behalf to make sure of these things were put in place before she returned to work, They also gave her more consideration if she needed more sick days.

So I would say it's worth doing as it kept her in a job without so many days off work and as much pain.

My OH also had an occupational assessment done by his school for his Type 1 Diabetes. It helped him a lot too because it meant he was given a special fridge for juice and chocolate if he was having a hypo, all staff were taught the tell tale signs , he can call for assistance to take over his class for a short time if he needs it and the students were given a special assembly were they learnt about diabetes so they all know what he is doing if he sits down and starts drinking.

I think it's worthwhile for everyone to try to get a work assessment done either through work or by someone coming in from government occupational assessment , especially if you are struggling because it can make the difference between managing to stay in work and having to give it up.