Acorn Occupational Health Ltd

29/07/2026

💪Physiotherapy vs Painkillers💊

Painkillers may provide short-term relief from musculoskeletal (MSK) pain, helping to ease discomfort temporarily. However, they don't always address the underlying cause of the problem, meaning symptoms can return if the root issue isn't treated.

Physiotherapy takes a more proactive approach by identifying what's causing the pain and creating a personalised treatment plan. This helps employees recover more effectively, improve mobility and strength, and reduce the risk of ongoing or recurring problems.

Early access to physiotherapy can help employers reduce sickness absence, support a safe return to work and keep employees feeling their best.

28/07/2026

Working from home? Your kitchen table isn't a long-term office. 💻

For many employees, hybrid working is here to stay. But while working from the kitchen table or sofa might be fine occasionally, it can quickly lead to poor posture, discomfort and musculoskeletal problems if it becomes the norm.

Neck pain, back pain, shoulder tension and wrist discomfort are often linked to workstations that haven't been set up correctly. The good news? Small adjustments can make a significant difference.

An ergonomic assessment helps ensure employees have a workstation that's tailored to them, whether they're working from home, in the office, or splitting their time between both. It's a simple way to improve comfort, support wellbeing and help reduce the risk of work-related musculoskeletal issues.

23/07/2026

Summer often means more opportunities to socialise... but it can also mean more opportunities to drink. ☀️🍻

Beer gardens, BBQs, festivals, weddings, holidays, and after-work drinks can all lead to increased alcohol consumption during the summer months. While there's nothing wrong with enjoying these occasions responsibly, it's important to recognise when drinking begins to affect health, wellbeing, or performance at work.

For employers, the signs of alcohol dependency aren't always obvious. Changes in attendance, concentration, behaviour, or productivity may be indicators that an employee needs support rather than judgement.

Creating a workplace where people feel comfortable asking for help can make all the difference. Occupational health management referrals can provide employees with the support they need while helping employers manage situations sensitively and appropriately.

Read our blog to learn more about recognising alcohol dependency in the workplace and how employers can provide effective support: https://www.acornoh.co.uk/news-events/guidance/understanding-alcohol-dependency-in-the-workplace/

Read more on Understanding Alcohol Dependency In The Workplace. Discover our blog posts which delve into topics within occupational health.

22/07/2026

Is your workforce fit for the tasks they carry out every day?

Some roles come with higher levels of risk, whether that's operating machinery, driving vehicles, working at height, or carrying out lone working duties. A Fit for Task Medical helps determine whether an employee is medically fit to safely perform the specific requirements of their role.

These assessments don't just support employee wellbeing; they also help employers meet their health and safety responsibilities while reducing the risk of incidents in the workplace.

Our Fit for Task Medicals can be tailored to a wide range of roles, including:
✔️ Drivers & FLT operators
✔️ Working at heights
✔️ Confined space workers
✔️ Night workers
✔️ Lone workers
✔️ Heat workers
✔️ Lead workers

Each assessment is specific to the demands of the role and provides practical recommendations where needed, giving employers confidence that their workforce is fit to work safely.

21/07/2026

💬 Supporting mental health shouldn't start at crisis point.

When employees are struggling, early support can make all the difference. Whether they're experiencing work-related stress, anxiety, low mood or challenges in their personal life, having access to counselling can help them address concerns before they begin to impact their wellbeing or ability to work.

Providing employees with timely, confidential support not only benefits the individual but can also help reduce the likelihood of prolonged absence and support a healthier, more resilient workforce.

At Acorn Occupational Health, our counselling service offers employees a safe space to talk, explore coping strategies and access professional support when they need it most.

17/07/2026

Summer can bring additional health and safety challenges that employers shouldn't overlook.

From dehydration and heat-related illness to fatigue and sun exposure, warmer weather can impact employee wellbeing, productivity, and workplace safety, particularly for outdoor workers and those in safety-critical roles.

Our latest blog explores the risks to be aware of, the warning signs to look out for, and practical steps employers can take to support their workforce throughout the summer months.

Read the full blog here 👉 https://www.acornoh.co.uk/news-events/awareness/summer-wellness-and-workplace-safety-supporting-employee-health-during-the-warmer-months/

Read more on Summer Wellness and Workplace Safety. Discover our blog posts which delve into topics within occupational health.

15/07/2026

☀️ Your summer health checklist isn't complete without knowing your numbers.

Staying hydrated, wearing sunscreen, getting enough sleep and keeping active are all important - but do you know your blood pressure, cholesterol or BMI?

Many common health conditions don't always show obvious symptoms, which is why regular health checks can play an important role in identifying potential issues early.

Our Well Person Medicals provide a confidential health assessment, giving employees valuable insights into their overall health and helping them take proactive steps towards a healthier future.

14/07/2026

⚡ Quick Fire Q&As

❓ Should I refer someone who's still at work?
✅ Yes. You don't need to wait until an employee is off sick. Early Occupational Health advice can help identify practical support before issues escalate.

❓ Can I refer someone with stress?
✅ Absolutely. Whether work-related or not, a Management Referral can provide guidance on fitness for work, workplace adjustments and ongoing support.

❓ What happens during an Occupational Health assessment?
✅ An Occupational Health clinician will speak with the employee to understand their health concerns, how they affect work, and discuss any support that may help. A report is then prepared to answer the manager's referral questions.

❓ Will the employee see the report?
✅ Yes. Employees are given the opportunity to review the report before it's released to their employer and must provide consent before it is shared.

09/07/2026

When people think about workplace ergonomics, they often think of desk chairs and monitor heights. But good ergonomics is much more than that.

Investing in workplace ergonomics can help reduce the risk of musculoskeletal injuries, improve employee comfort, boost productivity, and even reduce sickness absence. It's a proactive investment that benefits both your people and your business.

Read our blog to discover the top reasons why ergonomics should be a priority in every workplace: ⬇️

https://www.acornoh.co.uk/news-events/ergonomics/top-reasons-to-invest-in-workplace-ergonomics/

Read more on Top Reasons to Invest in Workplace Ergonomics. Discover our blog posts which delve into topics within occupational health.

08/07/2026

When we think about protecting our skin in summer, sunscreen is usually the first thing that comes to mind. ☀️

But for many employees, skin health isn't just a seasonal concern.

Throughout the year, workers in industries such as construction, healthcare, manufacturing, cleaning, hairdressing and food production may be regularly exposed to chemicals, wet work, oils, solvents and other irritants that can damage the skin and increase the risk of occupational dermatitis.

The good news? Early intervention can make a real difference.

Skin surveillance helps identify the early signs of work-related skin conditions, allowing employers to take action before symptoms become more serious and potentially lead to long-term health issues or sickness absence.

Protecting your workforce starts with prevention.