Tackling health inequalities in the workplace

In workplaces across Northern Ireland, health disparities often mirror those seen in broader society, with some groups facing higher risks of illness and reduced access to health resources. Recognising this challenge, the Work Well Live Well program, delivered by Developing Healthy Communities (DHC) in the western trust area and funded by the Public Health Agency, is committed to making health resources accessible for all.

By focusing on workplaces with higher concentrations of low-paid, manual, sedentary, male, and migrant workers, the program is addressing health inequalities head-on and paving the way for a healthier workforce.

Understanding health inequalities in the workplace

Health inequalities in the workplace can stem from various factors, including socioeconomic status, job type, and access to resources. In manual and sedentary roles, for example, employees are often at higher risk for conditions such as musculoskeletal issues, obesity, and stress. Migrant and low-paid workers, meanwhile, may face language barriers or lack access to healthcare, making it harder to address health concerns early.

These challenges highlight the importance of targeted health interventions that meet the specific needs of underserved employees, ensuring they receive the support they need to thrive.

The Work Well Live Well program addresses these inequalities by partnering with employers to identify at-risk groups and develop tailored health and wellbeing initiatives. Through this approach, the program aims to bridge health gaps, fostering environments where all employees—regardless of their background or job role—can access the resources necessary for a healthy, balanced life.

Providing targeted health interventions and support

One of the key ways Work Well Live Well promotes health equity is through the delivery of specialized training and workshops designed to address common health concerns in underserved populations.

Throughout 2023-24, Our Work Well Live Well manager Sabrina, organised sessions on Managing Mental Health, Physical Activity, and Stress Awareness, each targeted at providing practical strategies for managing health challenges in high-risk work environments.

The program also focused on promoting awareness of conditions that are often overlooked in lower-income and manual work settings. Topics such as Menopause Awareness, Financial Wellbeing, Burnout, and Cancer Awareness were included in the program’s health sessions, ensuring that employees had access to a full spectrum of health education.

By making information on these topics accessible to all, the program encourages employees to proactively address their health, reducing the risk of long-term issues.

The role of workplace health champions

To ensure the longevity and effectiveness of its initiatives, the Work Well Live Well program also trains Workplace Health Champions—employees who lead health-related initiatives within their workplaces.

This approach is particularly impactful in workplaces with health disparities, as champions serve as a resource for colleagues, offering guidance on health practices and fostering a supportive, inclusive environment.

This year alone, 30 new Workplace Health Champions were trained through Work Well Live Well. These champions play a crucial role in helping bridge the health gap within their workplaces, advocating for health resources, and supporting initiatives that promote long-term wellness.

By empowering employees from within, the program creates a sustainable model of health advocacy, one that can address health inequalities directly at the workplace level.

Making health checks accessible

Health screenings and checks are an important tool for identifying potential health risks before they become serious issues. However, employees in manual or low-income roles may have limited access to regular health assessments. In response, the Work Well Live Well program supported 18 workplaces in conducting employee health checks in 2023-24, reaching a total of 523 employees across the Western Trust region.

These checks, conducted in partnership with local health organizations, provided employees with valuable insights into their health status and actionable guidance on lifestyle changes.

A future of inclusive workplace health

The Work Well Live Well program’s commitment to addressing health inequalities reflects a broader vision of inclusive, accessible workplace health.

Through partnerships, training, and support for at-risk employees, Work Well Live Well is driving meaningful change across Northern Ireland. The program stands as a reminder that, by investing in equitable health initiatives, we can create workplaces that support the well-being of every employee—building a stronger, healthier community in the process.