We’re pleased to let you know about the launch of a new part of our Occupational Health and Wellbeing support offer.
From 1 May 2025, if a member of staff is absent from work due to a musculoskeletal (MSK) issue, our Occupational Health Physiotherapists will aim to make contact within 48 hours of notification, excluding weekends and bank holidays.
The purpose of this early contact is to:
- Offer timely MSK advice and support
- Provide self-management strategies where appropriate
- Signpost or refer on for further assessment if required
- Help facilitate a safe and timely return to work.
This service is designed to provide quick, expert input at the point when staff may benefit from early intervention the most.
Please note this is not a replacement for formal Occupational Health referrals, but an additional layer of early support for MSK-related absences. Staff will continue to have access to self-referral to physiotherapy for advice with MSK concerns too.
If you have any questions or would like further information, please don’t hesitate to contact Paul Jones Professional MSK physiotherapy Lead on 01925 664010 or email: ohwb
Frequently asked questions
This is a proactive service designed to offer early assessment, advice and support for musculoskeletal (MSK) conditions that are affecting staff. The aim is to help you recover quickly and return to work safely and sustainably.
When you report a sickness absence related to an MSK issue via Empactis, the Occupational Health Physiotherapy Team is notified. A member of the team will aim to contact you within 48 hours of notification, excluding weekends and bank holidays, to offer support.
The service is for any staff member who reports an MSK-related absence from work – for example, back pain, joint issues, sprains, or other physical injuries affecting movement or function.
You will receive a telephone call from a specialist physiotherapist. They will carry out a brief assessment, offer tailored advice, and arrange a follow up appointment if appropriate.
No referral is necessary. If you report an MSK-related absence via Empactis, you will be contacted automatically. If you haven’t been contacted and feel you would benefit from support, you can self-refer by clicking this link and entering the one time code which will be sent by email.
Appointments may include:
- Musculoskeletal assessment
- Advice on self-management strategies
- Return to work planning
- Prescribed exercises or rehabilitation advice
- Further follow up if needed.
Yes – the service is confidential. Any information shared with your manager or Occupational Health will only be done with your consent, unless there are significant health or safety concerns.
If further treatment is required, the physiotherapist may offer additional sessions or refer/signpost you to appropriate services within the NHS or private sector, depending on your needs and preferences.
- Rapid access to expert MSK support
- Early intervention to aid recovery
- Reduced time off work
- Safe and supported return to duties
- Advice tailored to your role and work environment.
Participation in the Rapid Access Physiotherapy service is voluntary. The service is designed to support your recovery and a safe return to work, but is not a condition of your employment.