Explore every episode of the podcast The SOM Podcast

Our monthly SOM News Update brings you the latest stories and insights from SOM and the wider OH world. Hosted by Steve Randall.

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Links mentioned in the podcast:


Supporting workers with fertility treatment and pregnancy loss: https://www.som.org.uk/sites/som.org.uk/files/Fertility_Treatment_and_Pregnancy_Loss_June_2026.pdf

Keep Britain Working Update: https://www.som.org.uk/sites/som.org.uk/files/KBW_The_Story_So_Far_June_FINAL.pdf

The SOM podcast is sponsored by Orchid Live - specialist occupational health software used by a number of SOM members to run every aspect of their occupational health operations. They hold healthcare records for over 1 million UK workers and work with both in-house OH teams and OH providers. You can find out more at OrchidLive.com.

To mark SOM’s 90th anniversary Amy McKeown brings together a distinguished panel to explore what the future looks like for occupational health, the pressing need to modernize the specialty, and how to create deeper structural integration within UK workplaces.

The conversation focuses heavily on shifting away from a reactive "medicalized model" toward proactive, upstream organizational support. The panel dives into the challenges of a commercialized procurement market, the pitfalls of unregulated corporate wellness trends, the future role of AI, and the critical importance of a healthy workforce for economic sustainability.

Panellists: 

•    Dr. Charles Goss: Consultant Occupational Physician; Head of Service in the NHS; Chair of the NHS Health at Work Network
•    Dr. Alasdair Emslie: Consultant Occupational Physician; Head of Health at Health Partners Group
•    Rachel Suff: Public Policy Team at the CIPD (Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development)
•    Prof. Neil Greenberg: Consultant Occupational Psychiatrist; President of the Society of Occupational Medicine (SOM)
•    Prof. Kevin Bampton: Chief Executive Officer of the British Occupational Hygiene Society (BOHS); Chair for the Council for Work and Health

Resources

• Visit the Society of Occupational Medicine (SOM)
• Explore the British Occupational Hygiene Society (BOHS)
• Learn more about the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD)

The SOM podcast is sponsored by Orchid Live - specialist occupational health software used by a number of SOM members to run every aspect of their occupational health operations. They hold healthcare records for over 1 million UK workers and work with both in-house OH teams and OH providers. You can find out more at OrchidLive.com.

In this special episode of The SOM Podcast, Amy McKeown speaks with Carolyn Harris MP, Chair of the All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) on Menopause, following an International Women’s Day event at the Houses of Parliament focused on keeping women in work.

Carolyn shares the progress that has been made in raising awareness of menopause over the past five years — from improving access to hormone replacement therapy (HRT) in England to embedding menopause considerations across government policy and workplace practice.

The conversation explores why menopause remains poorly recognised in healthcare training, how symptoms are often misdiagnosed as mental health conditions, and the significant impact menopause can have on women’s participation in the workforce.

They also discuss the critical role occupational health can play in supporting women to stay in work through practical adjustments, training, and proactive conversations.

Key topics covered

• Why menopause awareness has grown significantly since 2018
• Gaps in medical education and menopause diagnosis
• The introduction of the HRT prepayment certificate in England
• The impact of menopause on workforce participation and career progression
• Why workplace menopause frameworks and action plans matter
• The role of occupational health in early identification and workplace support
• The importance of flexible adjustments and dignity at work
• Why peer support and open conversations are still vital

Carolyn also outlines how occupational health professionals and organisations such as the Society of Occupational Medicine can support ongoing policy change by championing menopause awareness and advocating for workplace frameworks.

The SOM podcast is sponsored by Orchid Live - specialist occupational health software used by a number of SOM members to run every aspect of their occupational health operations. They hold healthcare records for over 1 million UK workers and work with both in-house OH teams and OH providers. You can find out more at OrchidLive.com.

In this episode of the SOM Podcast – Global CMO Series, host Dr Lara Shemtob speaks with Dr Katherine Carandang Chua, Chief Medical Officer for APAC at Pfizer, about the evolving role of occupational health and why workforce wellbeing must be viewed as a strategic business investment.

Drawing on nearly two decades of experience in occupational medicine, Dr Chua shares how Pfizer delivers holistic, culturally sensitive colleague wellness programmes across one of the world’s most diverse regions.

🎧 Key themes covered:

• The modern CMO remit in APAC
  Leading multidisciplinary teams of physicians, nurses, psychologists and therapists across Asia-Pacific.
• Holistic worker health
  Moving beyond physical health to include emotional, mental, social and even spiritual wellbeing.
• Culture over “one-size-fits-all”
  How global organisations can maintain consistency while adapting health initiatives to local cultural needs.
• Prevention-first strategies
  Nutrition, education and early intervention as core pillars of occupational health.
• Lessons from COVID-19
  How the pandemic elevated the importance of mental health, EAPs, and integrated wellness teams.
• Digital health, AI & analytics
  Using AI-enabled check-ins, data-driven programmes, and technology to scale prevention and support globally.
• Managing workforce change and AI anxiety
  Supporting employees through technological transformation to reduce stress and improve productivity.
• Measuring impact differently
  Why success in occupational health should be measured in lives touched, not just metrics.
• A call to business leaders
  Why “talk the talk and walk the walk” through clear policies and leadership commitment is essential for healthy, productive workplaces.

💡 Memorable quote: “People are not an expense — they are an investment. If you invest in workforce health, you invest in your business.”

Guest Bio:

Dr Katherine Carandang Chua is an Occupational Health Physician and Occupational Medicine Specialist with nearly 17 years of experience in workforce health. She currently serves as Chief Medical Officer for Asia Pacific at Pfizer, where she leads occupational health and colleague wellness strategy across a diverse and complex regional footprint.

In her role, Dr Chua oversees multidisciplinary teams of physicians, nurses, psychologists and therapists supporting employees across manufacturing, R&D and commercial sites throughout APAC. Her remit spans physical health, mental health, and holistic wellbeing, with a strong emphasis on prevention, early intervention and culturally responsive health programming.

A passionate advocate for viewing workforce health as a strategic business investment, Dr Chua has championed the integration of digital health tools, AI-enabled employee assistance services, and data-driven wellness initiatives to enhance accessibility and scalability across global teams.Her leadership reflects a deep belief that occupational health extends beyond the individual employee — positively impacting families, communities and organisational performance.

LinkedIn: https://ph.linkedin.com/in/katherine-marie-carandang-chua-md-moh-fpcom-a4442536

The SOM podcast is sponsored by Orchid Live - specialist occupational health software used by a number of SOM members to run every aspect of their occupational health operations. They hold healthcare records for over 1 million UK workers and work with both in-house OH teams and OH providers. You can find out more at OrchidLive.com.

Our monthly SOM News Update brings you the latest stories and insights from SOM and the wider OH world. Hosted by Steve Randall.

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Links mentioned in the podcast:

Precarious work risks: https://academic.oup.com/occmed/advance-article/doi/10.1093/occmed/kqag006/8489195?login=false 

Mental health apps MHRA guidance: https://www.gov.uk/government/news/mhra-issues-new-guidance-for-people-using-mental-health-apps-and-technologies


Neurodiversity at work guidance from Acas: https://www.acas.org.uk/neurodiversity-at-work

Some SOM Events in April:

• SOM/Wellbeing at Work/Qualitatas joint event: Integrated Health Summit in London, Tuesday 14th April 9.15am-5pm - register here
• Visit to University of Lancashire Wellness Centre, Wednesday 22nd April 2-5pm - register here
• SOM Occupational Health Practitioners Conference in Cardiff, Thursday 30th April 9am-4pm - register here

The SOM podcast is sponsored by Orchid Live - specialist occupational health software used by a number of SOM members to run every aspect of their occupational health operations. They hold healthcare records for over 1 million UK workers and work with both in-house OH teams and OH providers. You can find out more at OrchidLive.com.

In this episode of The SOM Podcast, Steve Randall is joined by workplace health and mental health expert Amy McKeown for a practical, insightful discussion on what good occupational health and wellbeing really looks like in modern organisations.

Drawing on over 20 years of experience—from early mental health tech startups to designing global workplace health strategies for organisations like Burberry, Samsung, and the EU Parliament—Amy shares what works, what doesn’t, and where workplace health is heading next. This episode cuts through one-off wellbeing initiatives and focuses on sustainable, strategic approaches that deliver real impact for employees and employers alike.
🔑 Key Topics Covered

• Why having any occupational health provision at all is the first critical step
• What a gold-standard, multidisciplinary workplace health strategy looks like
• Why off-the-shelf wellbeing initiatives often fail
• How to design occupational health services that actually fit your organisation and culture
• Using virtual occupational health and triage models to scale support effectively
• The hidden value of occupational health data for prevention, early intervention, and ROI
• Moving beyond absence management to reasonable adjustments and prevention
• Common misconceptions about occupational health—and how to fix them
• Why occupational health is often overlooked in wellbeing strategies
• Future trends shaping workplace health, wellbeing, and mental health in the UK

🌱 Key Takeaways

• Occupational health is not just about return-to-work reports—it’s a powerful tool for prevention
• Smart design and procurement of OH services can dramatically improve access and outcomes
• Integrating occupational health into wellbeing strategies unlocks measurable ROI
• The future of workplace health lies in strategic, collaborative, and innovative models involving employers, employees, providers, and government

🔮 Looking Ahead Amy shares why she’s optimistic about the future of workplace health—highlighting a shift toward strategic, multidisciplinary thinking and a real opportunity to rethink how health and mental health are supported through work.
👤 About the Guest Amy McKeown is a workplace health and mental health consultant with over two decades of experience designing and implementing strategies across global organisations, public institutions, and fast-growing companies. She regularly writes and shares insights on LinkedIn. 👉 Learn more at: https://amymckeown.com

The SOM podcast is sponsored by Orchid Live - specialist occupational health software used by a number of SOM members to run every aspect of their occupational health operations. They hold healthcare records for over 1 million UK workers and work with both in-house OH teams and OH providers. You can find out more at OrchidLive.com.

In this episode of Boardroom Brief, Dr Lara Shemtob speaks with Dr David Roomes, Chief Medical Officer at Bristol Myers Squibb, about what work and health really mean inside global organisations.

From aerospace engineering to mining to biopharma, David shares insights from a remarkable career spanning multiple industries and continents — and explains how occupational health can create real organisational value beyond traditional ROI arguments. Together they explore:

• How leaders define workforce health and wellbeing
• The evolving role of occupational health in global business
• The link between organisational culture, leadership and employee health
• The growing influence of AI in workplace health services
• Why prevention, evidence, and credibility matter when speaking to boards
• What business leaders can do tomorrow to make work healthier and more productive

Key Topics Covered:
• Career journey across GSK, Rio Tinto, Rolls-Royce, and Bristol Myers Squibb
• Occupational health as a strategic business function
• Employer value proposition and workforce expectations
• Measuring the real cost of musculoskeletal and mental health conditions
• Evidence-based approaches to wellbeing programmes
• US vs UK healthcare and employer responsibility
• AI in occupational health practice
• Leadership as the most powerful driver of healthy workplace culture

Key Quote: “If you can create a culture of health and wellbeing at your organisation, that is probably the most powerful lever you have.”

About the Guest:
Dr David Roomes is Chief Medical Officer at Bristol Myers Squibb, where he leads global workforce health strategy within a cutting-edge biopharmaceutical organisation focused on oncology and cell therapy.

He brings over 25 years of international experience in occupational medicine across pharmaceuticals, heavy industry, mining, aerospace, defence, and nuclear engineering. David began his career in the pharmaceutical sector at GlaxoSmithKline, joining shortly after the merger of SmithKline Beecham and Wellcome.

 Over a decade at GSK, he completed his occupational medicine training, served as a Medical Director, and gained extensive experience in both R&D and global manufacturing environments. In 2010, David relocated to Montreal to join Rio Tinto following its acquisition of Alcan, where he led the occupational health function within the aluminium business. This role gave him broad international exposure and experience navigating workforce health across diverse cultural and operational settings.

 In 2012, he was appointed Chief Medical Officer at Rolls-Royce PLC (aerospace, defence, and nuclear engineering). During his tenure, he later took on additional responsibility for Environmental Health & Safety and sustainability, working at the intersection of health, safety, engineering, and organisational leadership in high-risk industrial environments.

Three years ago, David returned to the life sciences sector, joining Bristol Myers Squibb as Chief Medical Officer. In this role, he focuses on linking employee health strategy to organisational performance, shaping benefits design, navigating complex healthcare systems in the US, and exploring the application of artificial intelligence in occupational health practice.

Across every industry he has served, David is recognised for advancing evidence-based workforce health strategies, building leadership accountability for wellbeing, and positioning occupational health as a driver of business value and organisational resilience.

The SOM podcast is sponsored by Orchid Live - specialist occupational health software used by a number of SOM members to run every aspect of their occupational health operations. They hold healthcare records for over 1 million UK workers and work with both in-house OH teams and OH providers. You can find out more at OrchidLive.com.

Our monthly SOM News Update brings you the latest stories and insights from SOM and the wider OH world. Hosted by Steve Randall.

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Links mentioned in the podcast:

AI Guidance for Occupational Health: https://www.som.org.uk/sites/som.org.uk/files/AI_Guidance_for_OH_Jan_2026.pdf 

SOM Business Plan 2026: https://www.som.org.uk/sites/som.org.uk/files/SOM_business_plan_2026.pdf

Expanded WorkWell scheme: https://www.gov.uk/government/news/expansion-of-support-scheme-to-help-thousands-of-people-back-into-work

Disablity Confident scheme overhaul: https://www.gov.uk/government/news/disability-confident-scheme-overhauled-to-boost-workplace-standards-for-disabled-people

Health and Wellbeing at Work event (book useing code SOM2026 for 10% discount): https://forms.reg.buzz/healthwellbeingwork-2026/?affiliate=5978e9ae0e423ba257be292da590b44cb28393b7fe6ee61d1cd92ba7c9321185

Medicinal cannabis at work, Tuesday 3rd March 1-2pm: https://www.som.org.uk/civicrm/event/info%3Fid%3D912%26reset%3D1

Clinical standards for OH reports sponsored by Orchid Live, Wednesday 4th March 1-2pm
https://www.som.org.uk/civicrm/event/info%3Fid%3D907%26reset%3D1

Leading with a Wellbeing Lens: what makes a successful programme, Wednesday 18th March 12-1pm: https://www.som.org.uk/civicrm/event/info%3Fid%3D897%26reset%3D1

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The SOM podcast is sponsored by Orchid Live - specialist occupational health software used by a number of SOM members to run every aspect of their occupational health operations. They hold healthcare records for over 1 million UK workers and work with both in-house OH teams and OH providers. You can find out more at OrchidLive.com.

In this inspiring episode, Dr. Richard Heron welcomes Dr. Ivan Ivanov — global leader in occupational and workers’ health — for a wide-ranging conversation recorded at the Royal College of Physicians in London.

Dr. Ivanov reflects on his 40+ year journey from aspiring surgeon in Bulgaria to factory health inspector, national reformer, and ultimately Head of Workers’ Health at the World Health Organization.

He shares how hands-on workplace experience shaped his approach to global health policy, why occupational health must remain rooted in real workplaces, and how the field is evolving from preventing harm to creating thriving, happy, and productive working lives.

The discussion explores shifting risk landscapes, the rise of psychosocial and digital-era hazards, the importance of evidence-based occupational health, universal health coverage, protecting healthcare workers, and the urgent need to redefine and better explain “occupational health” for future generations.

This episode is a celebration of leadership, curiosity, and a career built not on “work,” but on passion.

 Key Topics Discussed

• From surgery to public health: finding a calling in occupational health
• Early experiences as a factory health inspector in Bulgaria
• Transition from socialist systems to market economies and EU integration
• Building national and global workers’ health policies at WHO
• Why real workplace experience matters in occupational health
• Changing risk landscapes: physical, psychosocial, and digital-era risks
• From preventing disease to creating happy, healthy workplaces
• The business case for investing in workers’ health
• Combating “snake oil” and ensuring competence in occupational health services
• Integrating occupational health into primary healthcare
• Protecting healthcare workers and lessons from Ebola and COVID-19
• Challenges in defining and naming occupational health
• Advice to the next generation of occupational health leaders

Memorable Quotes

• “I was doing surgery — but on the social body, not the human body.”
• “Occupational health is extremely practical. If you cut ties with real workplaces, you fail.”
• “Nobody says thank you for the disease they didn’t get.”
• “Investing in good occupational health has enormous return on investment.”
• “I never worked a day — I only had fun, because I loved what I was doing.”

The SOM podcast is sponsored by Orchid Live - specialist occupational health software used by a number of SOM members to run every aspect of their occupational health operations. They hold healthcare records for over 1 million UK workers and work with both in-house OH teams and OH providers. You can find out more at OrchidLive.com.

In this CPD-focused episode of the SOM Podcast, Steve Randall speaks with Fiona Day — former public health consultant, NHS medical director, chartered coaching psychologist, and leadership development specialist — about how coaching psychology is transforming leadership and mentoring in healthcare.  

Fiona shares insights from her 20+ year medical career, her transition into executive coaching, and her research into evidence-based leadership development. She explains the growing evidence that experiential learning, coaching, and mentoring are among the most effective methods for developing healthcare leaders — and why coaching psychology, in particular, creates sustained behavioural change by working at the “metacognitive” level.  

The conversation explores:

•  How coaching differs from traditional leadership training
•  Why mentors should learn to coach first
• How coaching improves wellbeing, confidence, and decision-making 
• The emerging evidence base, including systematic reviews and published outcome data 
• Practical advice for occupational health professionals who want to develop coaching and mentoring skills  

This episode provides a roadmap for listeners looking to enhance their leadership impact, improve mentoring practice, and professionalise coaching within healthcare.   

**Key Topics Discussed**  

• Evidence-based leadership development in healthcare 
• Coaching psychology vs traditional leadership training 
• Mentoring and coaching: when to advise and when to facilitate discovery 
• Developing metacognitive skills in leaders 
• Measuring coaching outcomes and wellbeing impact
• Published research on coaching effectiveness
• Professional accreditation and standards in coaching and mentoring 
• Practical steps to begin a coaching journey
• Resources for further learning

Fiona's Website:www.fionadayconsulting.co.uk 
Fiona's Podcast: Transformational Thinking for Health Leaders

Articles mentioned in the episode:

https://bmjleader.bmj.com/content/9/4/349

https://fionadayconsulting.co.uk/services/bmj-leader-coaching-evidence-doctors-medical-public-health-leaders/





The SOM podcast is sponsored by Orchid Live - specialist occupational health software used by a number of SOM members to run every aspect of their occupational health operations. They hold healthcare records for over 1 million UK workers and work with both in-house OH teams and OH providers. You can find out more at OrchidLive.com.

In this episode of the SOM Podcast, host Steve Randall is joined by a panel of leading clinicians and occupational health experts to explore the realities of the UK Fit Note system.

The discussion covers how Fit Notes work in general practice, barriers to meaningful “maybe fit for work” recommendations, international comparisons from Guernsey’s healthcare system, and the growing call for stronger occupational health integration.

The panel reflects on GP workload pressures, patient expectations, policy reform, and the future of work-and-health collaboration.

Guests

• Dr Toni Hazel – GP in North London with a portfolio in education
• Prof Neil Greenberg – Consultant Psychiatrist, President of the Society of Occupational Medicine
• Dr Lara Shemtob – GP and Occupational Health Physician
• Dr Bob Gallagher – GP, Occupational Health Doctor & Medical Advisor for Social Security, Guernsey

Key Topics Discussed

• How Fit Notes currently work in NHS general practice
• The shift from “sick notes” to “fit notes” and the intention behind “maybe fit for work”
• Why over 90% of Fit Notes are still issued as “not fit for work”
• GP time pressures and lack of occupational health training
• The doctor–patient relationship and challenges of difficult Fit Note conversations
• Guernsey’s alternative model for sickness certification and GP training
• The role of occupational health professionals in complex or chronic cases
• Inequality in access to occupational health support
• Policy hopes from the Keep Britain Working review
• What an ideal Fit Note system could look like in the future

Key Takeaways

• Fit Notes are still largely being used like traditional sick notes
• GPs face time, training, and system constraints
• Occupational health expertise is essential for complex work-health decisions
• Better integration between healthcare, employers, and OH services is needed
• Good work is good for health — when supported properly

The SOM podcast is sponsored by Orchid Live - specialist occupational health software used by a number of SOM members to run every aspect of their occupational health operations. They hold healthcare records for over 1 million UK workers and work with both in-house OH teams and OH providers. You can find out more at OrchidLive.com.

As part of the Society of Occupational Medicine’s 90th anniversary, this fifth and final special Diamond Days episode explores how artificial intelligence is shaping the future of occupational health — from efficiency gains to ethical concerns and everything in between.

Hosts Amy McKeown and Anna Jones are joined by a panel of experts to unpack the realities of AI in OH today and where it’s heading next.

🎧 Guests

• Janet O’Neill – Chair, AI in Occupational Health Working Group
• Dr Jonathan Bear – Clinical Innovation Director
• Dr Lara Shemtob – Researcher in AI, healthcare & clinical practice

🔍 What’s Covered in This Episode

• How the AI in Occupational Health Working Group was formed and what their latest survey reveals
• Why AI uptake in OH remains low, despite growing interest
• Common fears around de-skilling, loss of critical thinking, and governance gaps
• Real-world examples of AI supporting:
  • Clinical documentation
  • Report writing
  • Workflow automation
• Why clinicians must stay “in the loop” when using AI tools
• The risks of fully autonomous AI in clinical decision-making
• AI’s potential role in mental health support, including CBT and access to care
• Ethical challenges, explainability, and patient safety concerns
• How AI could improve — or damage — collaboration across healthcare systems
• The broader role of occupational health in supporting workplaces through AI-driven change

The SOM podcast is sponsored by Orchid Live - specialist occupational health software used by a number of SOM members to run every aspect of their occupational health operations. They hold healthcare records for over 1 million UK workers and work with both in-house OH teams and OH providers. You can find out more at OrchidLive.com.

While safety in the workplace gets a massive amount of attention, long-term health risks (specifically exposure to loud noise) are frequently overlooked. In this episode, host Steve Randall is joined by Clare Forshaw, Professional Head of Health and Wellbeing at the RSSB and a Founder/Director of the UK Hearing Conservation Association.

Clare challenges the common misconception that hearing loss is simply an "inevitable part of ageing." The discussion touches on the broader, systemic impacts of noise-induced hearing loss and tinnitus on mental health, the shared responsibilities between employers and employees, and how our modern, content-heavy lifestyles are pushing our ears to the absolute limit before we even clock into work.

Key Takeaways:

• The "Poor Relation" of Health: Hearing health is often treated secondary to safety because it doesn't cause immediate, dramatic injuries. However, all noise-induced hearing loss is entirely preventable.
• The True Impact of Tinnitus: Far from a minor inconvenience, severe tinnitus can drastically erode a person's quality of life, leading to sleep deprivation, anxiety, and extreme psychological distress.
• The Dementia Connection: Recent studies highlight noise-induced hearing loss as one of the single biggest modifiable risk factors for early-onset dementia due to the social isolation and cognitive decline it triggers.
• Our "Daily Noise Dose": Between podcasts, music, public transit, and loud gyms, many of us consume our entire daily safe limit of noise exposure before our workday even begins.
• Continuous vs. Impact Noise: While continuous background noise is heavily monitored, short, sharp impact noises are often under-assessed, dealing harsh damage to already stressed hair cells in the ear.
• How to Spot a Noisy Workspace: A quick rule of thumb—if you have to raise your voice to speak to someone standing two meters away, the noise level is potentially harmful.

Connect with Clare on LinkedIn or visit the UKHCA Website.

  

The SOM podcast is sponsored by Orchid Live - specialist occupational health software used by a number of SOM members to run every aspect of their occupational health operations. They hold healthcare records for over 1 million UK workers and work with both in-house OH teams and OH providers. You can find out more at OrchidLive.com.

In this CPD-focused episode of The SOM Podcast, host Steve Randall is joined by Mandy Murphy, an experienced Occupational Health Specialist, senior leader, and professional coach, to explore how coaching skills can enhance occupational health practice and career development.

Drawing on her extensive NHS leadership background and current coaching work, Mandy explains how coaching supports career transitions, leadership development, return-to-work conversations, and professional identity shifts — both for employees and for occupational health professionals themselves.

This episode offers practical insights into listening deeply, contracting effectively, and balancing expertise with curiosity in occupational health consultations.

What You’ll Learn

• What coaching really is — and what it is not
• How coaching can support career progression and career pivots
• Why high achievers often seek coaching after “ticking all the boxes”
• Supporting identity shifts after maternity leave, illness, or role change
• The tension between being an expert clinician and an enabling coach
• How deep listening improves trust and outcomes in OH consultations
• Why “taming your advice monster” matters in health and work conversations
• How contracting sets expectations and unlocks better conversations
• Practical ways OH professionals can integrate coaching skills into everyday practice

Key Takeaways

• Coaching is about helping people think for themselves, not telling them what to do
• Career uncertainty is normal — especially after success or life transitions
• Creating psychological safety is essential for meaningful conversations
• Coaching skills strengthen OH practice without undermining clinical credibility
• Ownership leads to better engagement and more sustainable outcomes

About the Guest

Mandy Murphy is an Occupational Health Specialist with a career spanning clinical practice, NHS leadership, education quality, and professional coaching. She has held senior roles at Guy’s & St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust and the National School for Occupational Health, and now runs a coaching practice supporting professionals across industries. She specialises in:

• Career transitions and leadership development
• Return to work after absence or maternity leave
• Identity, confidence, and professional growth
• Health coaching skills for clinicians

🔗 Website: https://kutacoach.com
🔗 LinkedIn: Mandy Murphy

The SOM podcast is sponsored by Orchid Live - specialist occupational health software used by a number of SOM members to run every aspect of their occupational health operations. They hold healthcare records for over 1 million UK workers and work with both in-house OH teams and OH providers. You can find out more at OrchidLive.com.

In this thought-provoking episode of SOM’s Diamond Days podcast series with Amy McKeon & Anna Jones, we sit down with Dr Charlie Vivian, occupational physician of 20+ years and current Chair of the SOM Council in South Wales and the West of England. 

Charlie reflects on how occupational medicine has evolved throughout his career, from the early adoption of the biopsychosocial model to today’s rising challenge: a rapidly increasing proportion of the population unable to work due to long-term health conditions. We explore why traditional approaches may no longer be enough — and why occupational health must broaden its focus to include economic hazards and the societal structures that drive ill health and absence from work.

Key Discussion Points

🚀 Charlie’s path to SOM Council Chair & why leadership matters
🧠 The rise and limitations of the **biopsychosocial model** in practice *
📈 The dramatic increase in incapacity benefits since the 1980s — and what it reveals *
🏢 How neoliberal working structures, inequality, low-paid work and job insecurity are impacting workforce health *
🔄 The future role of occupational medicine — from managing absence to influencing national policy *
💡 Why OH must begin addressing **economic determinants of health** *
🩺 Fit notes, self-responsibility, prevention & where the NHS and employers overlap  

Charlie leaves us with a powerful cliff-hanger: Are current systems for workplace health fundamentally flawed? And what bold new direction should occupational medicine take?

The SOM podcast is sponsored by Orchid Live - specialist occupational health software used by a number of SOM members to run every aspect of their occupational health operations. They hold healthcare records for over 1 million UK workers and work with both in-house OH teams and OH providers. You can find out more at OrchidLive.com.

In this landmark episode of SOM’s Diamond Days — celebrating the Society of Occupational Medicine’s 90th anniversary — host Amy McEwen and sits down with Dame Carol Black, patron of SOM and one of the most influential voices in UK work and health.

Dame Carol discusses why she believes occupational health must “rebirth” itself for the future — broadening scope, embracing prevention and psychosocial issues, and reshaping services to meet the real challenges faced by workers today.

From mental health and menopause to financial stress, bullying, and returning from long-term sickness — she explores how OH can adapt to support modern working lives and contribute to keeping Britain working. A must-listen for anyone passionate about the future of workplace health, policy, and the evolving role of the OH profession.
Key Topics

• Why Dame Carol believes OH needs a strategic reinvention
• Aligning OH training and services with the realities of the 2025 workplace
• The importance of de-medicalising health and work conversations
• Integrating clinical and non-clinical approaches (e.g. domestic abuse, bereavement, caring responsibilities)
• Supporting people back into employment — insights from her benefits work
• Collaboration between government, employers, health systems, and new workforce wellbeing models
• “If not now, when?” — the urgency of transformation

The SOM podcast is sponsored by Orchid Live - specialist occupational health software used by a number of SOM members to run every aspect of their occupational health operations. They hold healthcare records for over 1 million UK workers and work with both in-house OH teams and OH providers. You can find out more at OrchidLive.com.

In this thought-provoking episode, host Steve Randall is joined by Professor Kim Burton, freelance occupational health researcher and former Professor of Occupational Health Care at the University of Huddersfield, and Janet O’Neill, Occupational Health Nurse Specialist and Deputy Head of the National School of Occupational Health.

Nearly two decades after Burton co-authored the influential 2006 report “Is Work Good for Your Health and Well-being?”, the panel explores what has—and hasn’t—changed in the relationship between work, health, and employer practice.

Together, they unpack:

• Why the application of evidence in occupational health has lagged behind the research
• The difference between the “what” and the “how” of workplace health interventions
• Why line managers (not OH) should often be the first point of health-related conversations
• The persistent cultural and knowledge-transfer gaps that block progress
• The role of training, including the Society of Occupational Medicine’s new Work & Health Conversation programmes
• How organizations can move beyond tick-box exercises to real behavioural change
• The importance of good work, organisational culture, and internal capacity before bringing in external services
• Practical ways employers can measure success—from retention data to wellbeing metrics and qualitative feedback

This episode is full of insight for OH professionals, HR leaders, line managers, and anyone responsible for workforce health and wellbeing.

Key Takeaways:

🔹 Evidence isn’t the problem—implementation is Kim argues that we’ve lost sight of what OH should deliver, focusing instead on processes rather than content.
🔹 The “work and health conversation” is still missing Despite strong evidence, consistent messaging across OH, HR, line managers, and healthcare is still lacking.
🔹 Line managers should be empowered Janet highlights that early conversations about health at work should start with line managers—not only with OH.
🔹 Training is essential for cultural change SOM’s upcoming training programmes aim to equip non-health professionals to have effective work-and-health conversations.
🔹 Behaviour change requires more than awareness Consistency, employer commitment, and clear frameworks are needed to avoid tick-box approaches.
🔹 Measure what matters Retention, sickness absence, presenteeism, stress risk assessments, employee surveys, and qualitative feedback are all part of tracking real progress.

The SOM podcast is sponsored by Orchid Live - specialist occupational health software used by a number of SOM members to run every aspect of their occupational health operations. They hold healthcare records for over 1 million UK workers and work with both in-house OH teams and OH providers. You can find out more at OrchidLive.com.

Our monthly SOM News Update brings you the latest stories and insights from SOM and the wider OH world. Hosted by Steve Randall.

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Links mentioned in the podcast:

The SOM/FOM Conference will take place in Nottingham next year. Save the date – 15th-17th June 2026. Bookings will open at the end of January but the call for abstracts is open now https://www.occupationalhealthconferences.com/call-for-abstracts-2026/

Mental Health & Wellbeing Outcomes reserach by ESRC: https://www.enterpriseresearch.ac.uk/publications/mental-health-and-wellbeing-practices-outcomes-and-productivity-final-project-report/

The Lane Lecture: The Artificial Stone Silicosis Epidemic - Lessons Learned for More Effective Prevention youtube.com/watch?si=gH9PTJw1z_RjGn4o&v=3xCCigUb17o&feature=youtu.be


SOM events webpage

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The SOM podcast is sponsored by Orchid Live - specialist occupational health software used by a number of SOM members to run every aspect of their occupational health operations. They hold healthcare records for over 1 million UK workers and work with both in-house OH teams and OH providers. You can find out more at OrchidLive.com.

In this special Diamond Days episode, host Amy McEwen brings together two leading voices in workplace health – Professor Neil Greenberg, president of SOM and Peter Cheese, CEO of the CPID – to discuss the Keep Britain Working report by Sir Charlie Mayfield.

The conversation dives into the future of work, wellbeing, and the collaboration needed between HR and occupational health to address the UK’s growing challenge of economic inactivity due to ill health.

You will gain insights into how both sectors can build structured, evidence-based approaches to wellbeing, empower non-clinical workplace health professionals, and help businesses of all sizes create healthier, more productive workplaces.

 💬 Key Topics Discussed

• The Keep Britain Working review and its implications for the future of workplace health.
• The vital partnership between HR and occupational health in supporting employees.
• Building a “Healthy Work Life Cycle” — from early intervention to prevention.
• Developing non-clinical workplace health professionals and training frameworks.
• Supporting SMEs in accessing occupational health expertise.
• The importance of data, evidence, and measurement through the proposed Workplace Health Intelligence Unit.
• Creating a structured, science-based approach to wellbeing and reducing stress at work.

🔗  Keep Britain Working – Sir Charlie Mayfield Review

The SOM podcast is sponsored by Orchid Live - specialist occupational health software used by a number of SOM members to run every aspect of their occupational health operations. They hold healthcare records for over 1 million UK workers and work with both in-house OH teams and OH providers. You can find out more at OrchidLive.com.

In this episode of The SOM Podcast, host Steve Randall speaks with Dr. Jo Feary.

Jo is a Respiratory Consultant specialising in occupational lung disease at the Royal Brompton Hospital, and Researcher at Imperial College London. She is also the Clinical Lead for Lungs at Work, an NHS service supporting workers, clinicians, and occupational health professionals affected by respiratory hazards.

She sheds light on the growing concern around artificial stone silicosis — an aggressive form of silicosis affecting workers in industries like kitchen worktop fabrication. They discuss how artificial stone, while popular for its durability and aesthetics, can expose workers to dangerously high levels of respirable crystalline silica (RCS).

Jo explains why traditional health surveillance methods may not detect cases early enough, what symptoms O professionals should look for, and what practical steps businesses can take to protect workers. This conversation highlights the urgent need for education, awareness, and proactive surveillance in tackling this preventable occupational disease.

Resources & Links: 🔗 Lungs at Work – NHS Service & Resources
📧 Contact the team via the email listed on their website for case inquiries or advice.
🏥 Free NHS referrals available for assessment within 6–8 weeks.

The SOM podcast is sponsored by Orchid Live - specialist occupational health software used by a number of SOM members to run every aspect of their occupational health operations. They hold healthcare records for over 1 million UK workers and work with both in-house OH teams and OH providers. You can find out more at OrchidLive.com.

Our monthly SOM News Update brings you the latest stories and insights from SOM and the wider OH world. Hosted by Steve Randall.

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Links mentioned in the podcast:

SOM Occupational Health Awards 2025 - now open!

HR professionals underestimate role of OH in employee wellbeing, new YouGov survey reveals

Nye’s lost legacy: Towards a National Occupational Health Service to keep people well in work. Read more. 

Florence Nightingale Foundation’s Leadership Scholarships for 2025 now open. 


SOM events webpage

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The SOM podcast is sponsored by Orchid Live - specialist occupational health software used by a number of SOM members to run every aspect of their occupational health operations. They hold healthcare records for over 1 million UK workers and work with both in-house OH teams and OH providers. You can find out more at OrchidLive.com.


The SOM podcast is sponsored by Orchid Live - specialist occupational health software used by a number of SOM members to run every aspect of their occupational health operations. They hold healthcare records for over 1 million UK workers and work with both in-house OH teams and OH providers. You can find out more at OrchidLive.com.

SOM’s Diamond Days is a limited-edition podcast series celebrating 90 years of the Society of Occupational Medicine.

Each episode brings together voices from across generations to explore the evolution, challenges, and bright future of occupational health. In this episode, hosts Amy McEwen and Anna Jones sit down with Dr. Mike Goldsmith, founder of Medigold Health, and his son Alex Goldsmith, the company’s current CEO.

Together, they share a fascinating intergenerational look at how occupational health has evolved — from its “industrial medicine” roots in the 1970s to today’s AI-driven, wellbeing-focused practice.

Mike reflects on the early days of setting up Medigold, the challenges of pioneering occupational health when few doctors were trained in the field, and how he helped shape professional standards still used today. 

Alex discusses his unexpected journey from finance to healthcare, the pivotal role of technology and AI in the sector’s future, and why he believes the next generation is inheriting a stronger, more respected industry than ever before.
Key Topics & Moments

• (00:33) Introducing SOM’s Diamond Days 90th Anniversary Series
• (01:04) Mike Goldsmith: founding Medigold in the late 1970s
• (03:28) Early days of industrial health & the challenges for OH nurses
• (05:12) The changing perception of occupational health: from reactive to proactive
• (07:20) Alex joins Medigold – a career change sparked by family and opportunity
• (08:46) Maintaining quality and self-regulation in a growing industry
• (10:18) The role of AI and the digital future of occupational health
• (12:24) Father and son reflections: lessons, clashes, and shared pride

Guest Bios

Dr. Mike Goldsmith – Founder of Medigold Health, a pioneer of modern occupational health practice in the UK. Over five decades in medicine, Mike helped define the standards and training pathways for occupational physicians and nurses.

Alex Goldsmith – CEO of Medigold Health. Alex has led the company’s growth into one of the UK’s largest OH providers, championing innovation, technology, and clinician wellbeing.

The SOM podcast is sponsored by Orchid Live - specialist occupational health software used by a number of SOM members to run every aspect of their occupational health operations. They hold healthcare records for over 1 million UK workers and work with both in-house OH teams and OH providers. You can find out more at OrchidLive.com.

In this episode of the Society of Occupational Medicine’s Specialist Functional Assessment Medicine Group Podcast, Karen Wallace is joined by Lara Shemtob (Royal Free London NHS Foundation Trust) and Kim Burton (Work and Health Policy Advisor) for a deep dive into the growing challenge of long-term sickness and economic inactivity — and how we can respond more effectively.  

Together, they explore:

📈 Why long-term sickness is rising — from delayed access to care to changing workplace demands

🩺 The importance of early, personalised support and the role of clinical oversight in preventing work loss

💬 How support conversations can be reframed to empower individuals and promote recovery

🛠️ The potential of tech-enabled solutions — including digital platforms and predictive tools — to support return-to-work journeys

🏢 The need to engage employers and line managers early, and build a more joined-up approach across health and employment

📚 Why training a new workforce to deliver consistent, empathetic work-and-health conversations is key to future success

This episode is a call to action for clinicians, policymakers, employers, and anyone passionate about improving the relationship between work and health. Tune in to hear how we can move from assessment to empowerment — and build a future where support conversations truly make a difference.

The SOM podcast is sponsored by Orchid Live - specialist occupational health software used by a number of SOM members to run every aspect of their occupational health operations. They hold healthcare records for over 1 million UK workers and work with both in-house OH teams and OH providers. You can find out more at OrchidLive.com.

Our monthly SOM News Update brings you the latest stories and insights from SOM and the wider OH world. Hosted by Steve Randall.

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Links mentioned in the podcast:


SOM guide, Repositioning OH within the Employee Value Proposition (EVP)

Employment support for disabled people: Disability at Work 

New WISE-QM: Quality Mark for Wellbeing Initiatives and Services for Employees

Work Right: What is health surveillance?

EVENTS:

Introduction to Occupational Health, Wednesday 1st July 2-4.30pm - register here

Wellbeing Professional Competency Framework, Monday 20th July 1-2pm - register here


The SOM podcast is sponsored by Orchid Live - specialist occupational health software used by a number of SOM members to run every aspect of their occupational health operations. They hold healthcare records for over 1 million UK workers and work with both in-house OH teams and OH providers. You can find out more at OrchidLive.com.

Following on from the SOM Careers Event during Occupational Health Awareness Week 2025, we're hearing from OH professionals across various diciplines and from different clinical backgrounds about how they began their OH careers.

There are six episodes in total in this mini-series. 

In this episode, we hear from Nicola Jagieslski, psychotherapist and clinical director. 

The SOM podcast is sponsored by Orchid Live - specialist occupational health software used by a number of SOM members to run every aspect of their occupational health operations. They hold healthcare records for over 1 million UK workers and work with both in-house OH teams and OH providers. You can find out more at OrchidLive.com.

Following on from the SOM Careers Event during Occupational Health Awareness Week 2025, we're hearing from OH professionals across various diciplines and from different clinical backgrounds about how they began their OH careers.

There are six episodes in total in this mini-series. 

In this episode, we hear from Sarwar Chowdhury, senior occupational health physician. 


The SOM podcast is sponsored by Orchid Live - specialist occupational health software used by a number of SOM members to run every aspect of their occupational health operations. They hold healthcare records for over 1 million UK workers and work with both in-house OH teams and OH providers. You can find out more at OrchidLive.com.

Following on from the SOM Careers Event during Occupational Health Awareness Week 2025, we're hearing from OH professionals across various diciplines and from different clinical backgrounds about how they began their OH careers.

There are six episodes in total in this mini-series. 

In this episode, we hear from Matt Higginson, occupational health nurse.


The SOM podcast is sponsored by Orchid Live - specialist occupational health software used by a number of SOM members to run every aspect of their occupational health operations. They hold healthcare records for over 1 million UK workers and work with both in-house OH teams and OH providers. You can find out more at OrchidLive.com.

Following on from the SOM Careers Event during Occupational Health Awareness Week 2025, we're hearing from OH professionals across various diciplines and from different clinical backgrounds about how they began their OH careers.

There are six episodes in total in this mini-series. 

In this episode, we hear from Lisa Harrison & Karen Phillpotts, occupational therapists. 

The SOM podcast is sponsored by Orchid Live - specialist occupational health software used by a number of SOM members to run every aspect of their occupational health operations. They hold healthcare records for over 1 million UK workers and work with both in-house OH teams and OH providers. You can find out more at OrchidLive.com.

Following on from the SOM Careers Event during Occupational Health Awareness Week 2025, we're hearing from OH professionals across various diciplines and from different clinical backgrounds about how they began their OH careers.

There are six episodes in total in this mini-series. 

In this episode, we hear from Karli Gibson, musculoskeletal physiotherapist. 

The SOM podcast is sponsored by Orchid Live - specialist occupational health software used by a number of SOM members to run every aspect of their occupational health operations. They hold healthcare records for over 1 million UK workers and work with both in-house OH teams and OH providers. You can find out more at OrchidLive.com.

Following on from the SOM Careers Event during Occupational Health Awareness Week 2025, we're hearing from OH professionals across various diciplines and from different clinical backgrounds about how they began their OH careers.

There are six episodes in total in this mini-series. 

In this episode, we hear from Alex Rhind, a mental health nurse in OH. 

The SOM podcast is sponsored by Orchid Live - specialist occupational health software used by a number of SOM members to run every aspect of their occupational health operations. They hold healthcare records for over 1 million UK workers and work with both in-house OH teams and OH providers. You can find out more at OrchidLive.com.

Our monthly SOM News Update brings you the latest stories and insights from SOM and the wider OH world. Hosted by Steve Randall.

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Links mentioned in the podcast:

Free resources for Occupational Health Awareness Week from SOM

UK Government research on Understanding Occupational Health Provision

TUC review: Keep Britain working: an independent review into the role of employers in health and disability

Bevan Commission Employee Health and Wellbeing Best Practice Guide in English and Welsh. 

SOM events webpage

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The SOM podcast is sponsored by Orchid Live - specialist occupational health software used by a number of SOM members to run every aspect of their occupational health operations. They hold healthcare records for over 1 million UK workers and work with both in-house OH teams and OH providers. You can find out more at OrchidLive.com.

The SOM podcast is sponsored by Orchid Live - specialist occupational health software used by a number of SOM members to run every aspect of their occupational health operations. They hold healthcare records for over 1 million UK workers and work with both in-house OH teams and OH providers. You can find out more at OrchidLive.com.

Cannabis prescriptions are becoming more common in the UK, whether via NHS-approved routes or through private clinics. But how does this affect workplace drug testing and occupational health practice? In this CPD-focused episode, toxicologist Helen Vangikar explores:

• The difference between NHS-authorised cannabis-based medicinal products (per the BNF) and privately issued prescriptions.
• Why some organisations (e.g., Network Rail) will only accept BNF-listed cannabis prescriptions.
• How Medical Review Officers should handle positive test results when legitimate prescriptions are involved.
• The analytical challenges in laboratories—why they can’t distinguish private vs. street cannabis.
• The need for consistent policy development across sectors and internationally.
• The role of CBD vs. THC in testing and future trends in testing approaches and legal frameworks.

This episode offers occupational health professionals valuable insights to stay informed and confident in their practice.

 Resources & Links

• Helen Vangikar’s website: helenvangikar.com
• Connect with Helen on LinkedIn: LinkedIn Profile
• Society of Occupational Medicine (SOM): som.org.uk
• Faculty of Occupational Medicine (FOM): fom.ac.uk

The SOM podcast is sponsored by Orchid Live - specialist occupational health software used by a number of SOM members to run every aspect of their occupational health operations. They hold healthcare records for over 1 million UK workers and work with both in-house OH teams and OH providers. You can find out more at OrchidLive.com.

In this episode of the Society of Occupational Medicine’s Specialist Functional Assessment Medicine Group Podcast, host Karen Wallace speaks with Dr. Lanre Ogunyemi about the DWP’s Pathway to Work Green Paper and its bold vision for integrating work, health, and welfare reform. Together, they explore:

• Why prevention and early intervention must be at the heart of any reform.
• How occupational health can be embedded within welfare and healthcare systems.
• The need for a tiered approach to functional assessment and return-to-work support.
• The importance of training, leadership, and building confidence in occupational health.
• The risks of getting reform wrong – and the opportunities if we get it right.

With some “blue sky thinking,” the discussion considers what a future system could look like if access to occupational health was universal, technology was harnessed effectively, and prevention was truly prioritised. Key Takeaways:

• The Green Paper offers a real opportunity for occupational health to shape the future of work and welfare.
• A stepped, tiered model could better match support to individual needs.
• Prevention and early intervention save money, reduce absence, and improve wellbeing.
• Embedding occupational health into the NHS and wider welfare system is essential.
• Without change, the UK risks worsening economic inactivity and rising welfare costs.

Guest: Dr. Lanre Ogunyemi
Host: Karen Wallace, SOM Functional Assessment Medicine Specialist Interest Group

The SOM podcast is sponsored by Orchid Live - specialist occupational health software used by a number of SOM members to run every aspect of their occupational health operations. They hold healthcare records for over 1 million UK workers and work with both in-house OH teams and OH providers. You can find out more at OrchidLive.com.

Our monthly SOM News Update brings you the latest stories and insights from SOM and the wider OH world. Hosted by Steve Randall.

SOM 90th anniversary - 2025
Register here to attend the Anniversary dinner on Friday 26th September at the Apothecaries’ Hall, London. Guest speaker: Dame Carol Black.

Links mentioned in the podcast:

The competency framework will be formally launched this autumn via the SOM website and at the SOM Leadership Conference 2025, taking place on Thursday 9th October, 9.30am to 4.30pm at Alliance Manchester Business School. This will be a hybrid event, in-person and online. Register for in-person attendance here and online attendance here.

SOM and the Faculty of Occupational Health Nursing (FOHN) Join Forces to Drive Impact and Collaboration READ MORE

SOM blogs - What Occupational Health Is (and not) and OH: Managing the Hidden Risks of Health in the Workplace


The SOM podcast is sponsored by Orchid Live - specialist occupational health software used by a number of SOM members to run every aspect of their occupational health operations. They hold healthcare records for over 1 million UK workers and work with both in-house OH teams and OH providers. You can find out more at OrchidLive.com.

The SOM podcast is sponsored by Orchid Live - specialist occupational health software used by a number of SOM members to run every aspect of their occupational health operations. They hold healthcare records for over 1 million UK workers and work with both in-house OH teams and OH providers. You can find out more at OrchidLive.com.

Explore how artificial intelligence is transforming workplaces and what occupational health professionals need to know to support organizations and employees through this evolving landscape. Dr. Lara Shemtob shares insights with Kat Barnard on the challenges, opportunities, and strategies for managing AI integration in the workplace.

In this episode:

• The broad impact of AI beyond office roles, touching healthcare, education, and manual trades
• The importance of a coherent narrative for AI adoption and addressing employee anxiety
• Historical parallels: Digital transformation, social media, cloud computing, and lessons learned
• How organizational culture influences AI adoption, including ground rules and experimentation
• The critical role of communication, research, and internal feedback in supporting a smooth transition
• The significance of understanding job roles and tasks to identify AI opportunities
• Managing uncertainty and change using cyclical, human-centered frameworks like the Prochaska model
• Practical advice for occupational health teams supporting psychological resilience and adaptability

Resources & Links:

• Prochaska, DiClemente, and Norcross’s Transtheoretical Model of Change
• Megan Wright and John Higgins' research on spaciousness
• Huberman Lab Podcast - Neuroscience of Change
• Working the Future - Advisory firm on Work Trends

Connect with Kat Barnard:

• LinkedIn

The SOM podcast is sponsored by Orchid Live - specialist occupational health software used by a number of SOM members to run every aspect of their occupational health operations. They hold healthcare records for over 1 million UK workers and work with both in-house OH teams and OH providers. You can find out more at OrchidLive.com.

This episode of the Society of Occupational Medicine's Specialist Interest Functional Assessment Medicine Group podcast delves into the critical topic of reasonable adjustments in the workplace.

We explore the legal framework, practical considerations, and common challenges faced by both employers and employees.

Hosted by Dr Karen Wallace, joined by occupational therapist Helen Valls-Russell and employment solicitor Kate Lawson, we discuss the definition of disability, the nuances of the Equality Act, affordability, employer expectations, and the crucial role of clinical opinion. 

The conversation also tackles prevalent issues such as neurodiversity, menopause, and the complexities of working from home in the context of reasonable adjustments. 

Key Themes & Discussion Points:

• Defining Disability: A deep dive into the legal definition of disability under the Equality Act and the challenges employers face in identifying who is covered.
• The "Reasonableness" Factor: Understanding what constitutes a "reasonable" adjustment, considering factors like practicality, financial cost, disruption to the business, and the size and resources of the employer.
• The Role of Clinical Opinion: Discussing how occupational health practitioners provide guidance on disability and suggest adjustments, emphasizing the importance of clinical reasoning over simply repeating employee requests.
• Communication is Key: Highlighting the vital role of open communication between employers, employees, and occupational health professionals to ensure effective and mutually beneficial adjustments.
• Addressing Substantial Disadvantage: The core principle behind reasonable adjustments – identifying and alleviating the specific disadvantage experienced by a disabled employee.
• Common Challenges & Practical Solutions:
  • Neurodiversity: Exploring various adjustments beyond just working from home, such as quiet rooms, noise-cancelling headphones, and flexible working arrangements.
  • Menopause: Discussing how menopause symptoms can amount to a disability and the range of individualized adjustments that can be considered, from temperature control to managing anxiety and confidence.
  • Working from Home: Examining when remote work is a beneficial adjustment and when it might not be the best solution, especially concerning isolation or specific functional needs.
• Access to Work: How this scheme can support employers in making otherwise unfeasible adjustments.
• Functional Approach: Emphasizing the importance of focusing on how a condition impacts an individual's function rather than solely on the diagnosis when recommending adjustments.

Speakers:

• Dr. Karen Wallace: Host, Society of Occupational Medicine's Specialist Interest Functional Assessment Medicine Group
• Helen Valls-Russell: Experienced Occupational Therapist and Director at Ergocom
• Kate Lawson: Experienced Specialist Employment Solicitor and Director at Element Law

The SOM podcast is sponsored by Orchid Live - specialist occupational health software used by a number of SOM members to run every aspect of their occupational health operations. They hold healthcare records for over 1 million UK workers and work with both in-house OH teams and OH providers. You can find out more at OrchidLive.com.

Our monthly SOM News Update brings you the latest stories and insights from SOM and the wider OH world. Hosted by Steve Randall.

SOM 90th anniversary - 2025
Register here to attend the Anniversary dinner on Friday 26th September at the Apothecaries’ Hall, London. Guest speaker: Dame Carol Black.

Links mentioned in the podcast:

https://www.som.org.uk/som-president-electionOccupational Health Audits guidance 

Pathways to Work: Reforming Benefits and Support to Get Britain Working Green Paper -Response from SOM here

Parliamentary Question - Peter Lamb, MP submitted a question about what the Government is doing re. introducing a women’s health workplace strategy – response from the Government, here.

Draft AI guidance - iOH / SOM have produced draft guidance and risk assessment for OH and AI. 



The SOM podcast is sponsored by Orchid Live - specialist occupational health software used by a number of SOM members to run every aspect of their occupational health operations. They hold healthcare records for over 1 million UK workers and work with both in-house OH teams and OH providers. You can find out more at OrchidLive.com.

The SOM podcast is sponsored by Orchid Live - specialist occupational health software used by a number of SOM members to run every aspect of their occupational health operations. They hold healthcare records for over 1 million UK workers and work with both in-house OH teams and OH providers. You can find out more at OrchidLive.com.

In this episode of the SOM Podcast Mini CPD Series, host Steve Randall speaks with renowned pain coach Richmond Stace to explore a transformational approach to chronic pain—one that moves beyond the traditional biomedical model.

Richmond introduces the principles of pain coaching, rooted in neuroscience, psychology, and patient-centred care. Learn how shifting the focus from “fixing pain” to “understanding the person experiencing it” can unlock better outcomes in workplace health and recovery.
🔍 Key Topics Covered:

• Why chronic pain isn't always about where it hurts
• Limitations of the biomedical model in occupational health
• The science behind pain as a lived, conscious experience
• How beliefs and narratives shape pain
• Personalising movement and recovery strategies
• Building supportive, empathetic workplace cultures
• The crucial role of communication in pain management

📖 Related Reading:
👉 Chronic Pain in the Workplace: A New Perspective for Occupational Health — [Read Richmond's article on the SOM site]
📲 Connect with Richmond Stace:

• 📷 Instagram: @paincoach
• 💼 LinkedIn: Richmond Stace
• ✉️ Substack: Pain Talking Newsletter

The SOM podcast is sponsored by Orchid Live - specialist occupational health software used by a number of SOM members to run every aspect of their occupational health operations. They hold healthcare records for over 1 million UK workers and work with both in-house OH teams and OH providers. You can find out more at OrchidLive.com.

In this episode of the SOM Occupational Therapists Series, host Jo Vallom-Smith is joined by Helen Valls-Russell, a passionate and experienced occupational therapist specialising in vocational rehabilitation (VR).

Together, they unpack what VR really means, how it integrates with occupational health, and why early intervention is crucial to successful work return outcomes.

Helen shares insights into the multidisciplinary nature of vocational rehab, discusses how it can be a bridge between healthcare and employment, and explains how OTs are uniquely equipped to assess and support functional work readiness.

Whether you're an occupational therapist, a case manager, or just curious about how rehabilitation meets the world of work, this episode is full of practical insights, evidence-based discussion, and real-world applications. 

Key Topics:

• What is vocational rehabilitation?
• How VR differs from and complements occupational health
• The importance of early intervention in return-to-work outcomes
• Functional restoration and work hardening
• The role of OTs in VR and how to get involved
• Challenges and opportunities in small and medium-sized businesses
• Collaborative working with employers and other stakeholders

Resources Mentioned:

• Vocational Rehabilitation Association (VRA)
• Society of Occupational Medicine (SOM)

The SOM podcast is sponsored by Orchid Live - specialist occupational health software used by a number of SOM members to run every aspect of their occupational health operations. They hold healthcare records for over 1 million UK workers and work with both in-house OH teams and OH providers. You can find out more at OrchidLive.com.

Our monthly SOM News Update brings you the latest stories and insights from SOM and the wider OH world. Hosted by Steve Randall.

SOM 90th anniversary - 2025
Register here to attend the Anniversary dinner on Friday 26th September at the Apothecaries’ Hall, London. Guest speaker: Dame Carol Black.


Links mentioned in the podcast:

SOM President election




The SOM podcast is sponsored by Orchid Live - specialist occupational health software used by a number of SOM members to run every aspect of their occupational health operations. They hold healthcare records for over 1 million UK workers and work with both in-house OH teams and OH providers. You can find out more at OrchidLive.com.


The SOM podcast is sponsored by Orchid Live - specialist occupational health software used by a number of SOM members to run every aspect of their occupational health operations. They hold healthcare records for over 1 million UK workers and work with both in-house OH teams and OH providers. You can find out more at OrchidLive.com.

In the third episode of our occupational therapist-led podcast series, we explore fatigue - its clinical definition, impact on work, and how occupational therapists can support individuals living with long-term fatigue conditions such as ME/CFS, fibromyalgia, long COVID, and more. Host:

• 🎙️ Jo Vallom-Smith – Chair of the Special Interest Group for Allied Health Professionals, Society of Occupational Medicine

Guest:

• 🎙️ Charlie Adler – Occupational Therapist at Vitality 360, fatigue and pain specialist with extensive experience since 1997

🔍 In This Episode:

• How clinical fatigue differs from everyday tiredness
• Diagnoses commonly associated with fatigue (ME/CFS, fibromyalgia, long COVID, etc.)
• The complex interplay of fatigue, pain, and mental health
• Challenges fatigue presents in the workplace—from concentration to cognitive overload
• Common symptoms: “walking through treacle,” memory lapses, sensory overwhelm
• How OTs support people to return to and remain in work
• Practical workplace adjustments: flexible hours, breaks, hybrid work, sensory environments
• The importance of individualised, holistic, biopsychosocial approaches
• Why occupational therapists are uniquely positioned to help with fatigue management

🛠️ Useful Resources:

• 📘 Living with ME and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome by Dr. Coakley & Beverly Knops
• 🔗 Vitality 360 – Specialist fatigue support
• 🔗 BACME – British Association of Clinicians in ME/CFS
• 🔗 MS Society – Fatigue and Work
• 🔗 Royal College of Occupational Therapists – Fatigue Resources

The SOM podcast is sponsored by Orchid Live - specialist occupational health software used by a number of SOM members to run every aspect of their occupational health operations. They hold healthcare records for over 1 million UK workers and work with both in-house OH teams and OH providers. You can find out more at OrchidLive.com.

New for 2025 is our monthly SOM News Update, bringing you the latest stories and insights from SOM and the wider OH world. Hosted by Steve Randall.

Get your tickets for the SOM/FOM Conference in Brighton: https://www.occupationalhealthconferences.com/registration/


Links mentioned in the podcast:

Health Effects of Silica Dust

SOM 90th Anniversary Dinner


The SOM podcast is sponsored by Orchid Live - specialist occupational health software used by a number of SOM members to run every aspect of their occupational health operations. They hold healthcare records for over 1 million UK workers and work with both in-house OH teams and OH providers. You can find out more at OrchidLive.com.

The SOM podcast is sponsored by Orchid Live - specialist occupational health software used by a number of SOM members to run every aspect of their occupational health operations. They hold healthcare records for over 1 million UK workers and work with both in-house OH teams and OH providers. You can find out more at OrchidLive.com.

In the third of our ‘mini CPD’ episodes, Clare Rayner, occupational physician and occupational medicine consultant, to talk about Long Covid, a condition lived with by many people, some of whom have been suffering since the early days of the pandemic in 2020.

She talks about spotting the signs of Long Covid, the challenges for workplaces, and how OH professionals have the ideal skillset to identify and manage the condition.

For more resources please visit the Society of Occupational Medicine website.

The SOM podcast is sponsored by Orchid Live - specialist occupational health software used by a number of SOM members to run every aspect of their occupational health operations. They hold healthcare records for over 1 million UK workers and work with both in-house OH teams and OH providers. You can find out more at OrchidLive.com.

In this episode, the discussion revolves around the implementation of wellbeing programs in organizations, emphasizing the role of behavioral science in enhancing workplace culture, leadership, and employee support.

Host Steve Randall speaks with Nupur Yogarajah who founded Dr NY, a consultancy to support organisations with wellbeing, inclusion and leadership challenges. Her USP is combining skill sets of behavioural scientist, clinical leadership and medical doctor, to offer reliable services through multiple wellbeing related lenses for analysis of problems and designing of solutions.

One of Nupur's recent projects was with law firm Thackray Williams and joint managing partner Emma Thompson is also on the episode to talk more about how the process worked and its benefits. 

The conversation highlights the importance of understanding the underlying reasons for wellbeing initiatives, the necessity of leadership involvement, and the challenges of sustaining these programs over time.

Additionally, the speakers address the impact of generational differences on workplace wellbeing and the significance of measuring the effectiveness of these initiatives. The episode concludes with a focus on embedding wellbeing into the organizational culture and the return on investment associated with these efforts.



The SOM podcast is sponsored by Orchid Live - specialist occupational health software used by a number of SOM members to run every aspect of their occupational health operations. They hold healthcare records for over 1 million UK workers and work with both in-house OH teams and OH providers. You can find out more at OrchidLive.com.

This podcast discusses the vital connection between work and health, focusing on the challenges of prolonged work disability and the importance of good work for mental and emotional well-being.

Experts Kim Burton, Karen Wallace, and Emma Hogan explore the role of healthcare professionals, the fitnote system, and the need for cultural shifts in perceptions of work and health.

They emphasize the importance of education, preventative strategies, and creating a supportive environment for individuals with health problems to maintain their workability and successfully return to work.

The SOM podcast is sponsored by Orchid Live - specialist occupational health software used by a number of SOM members to run every aspect of their occupational health operations. They hold healthcare records for over 1 million UK workers and work with both in-house OH teams and OH providers. You can find out more at OrchidLive.com.

In this episode, Werner Stipp - Consultant in Occupational Health and member of the SOM Special Interest Group in Sleep - joins host Steve Randall to discuss the critical intersection of sleep health and workplace performance.

Stipp outlines how OH professionals can utilize sleep assessments to improve worker wellbeing and mitigate safety risks, particularly in safety-critical roles like train driving. The conversation covers the physiology of REM sleep, and the unique challenges faced by shift workers.  

Key Takeaways

• The Sleep-Stress Cycle: There is an inverse relationship between stress and sleep health; stress leads to poor sleep, which in turn reduces a person's ability to manage daily pressures.
• Physiological Benefits of Deep Sleep: During sleep, support cells in the brain act as a "pump" to wash out stress hormones through five 90-minute "ultradian" cycles.
• The Myth of "Catching Up": Sleep debt is like a mortgage that cannot be easily paid off; sleeping in on weekends is often a sign of "decompensation" rather than a solution.   ·        Shift Work Strategies: Successful shift workers often wait to sleep until they are truly tired after a night shift rather than forcing immediate rest.
• Screening for "Red Flags": OH professionals should first exclude treatable conditions like narcolepsy or obstructive sleep apnoea, which affects an estimated 8 million people in the UK.  

Connect with Werner Stipp on LinkedIn.


The SOM podcast is sponsored by Orchid Live - specialist occupational health software used by a number of SOM members to run every aspect of their occupational health operations. They hold healthcare records for over 1 million UK workers and work with both in-house OH teams and OH providers. You can find out more at OrchidLive.com.

In the second episode of this special series, we explore the critical role of Functional Capacity Evaluations (FCE) in occupational health with experts Jo Vallom-Smith, Dr. Jain Holmes, and Mandy Kelly.

The discussion delves into the comprehensive nature of FCEs, how they differ from standard assessments, and the importance of objective data in evaluating an individual's capabilities. 

Listen to discover the intricacies of FCEs, their applications, and the key considerations for occupational therapists looking to enhance their practice.

The SOM podcast is sponsored by Orchid Live - specialist occupational health software used by a number of SOM members to run every aspect of their occupational health operations. They hold healthcare records for over 1 million UK workers and work with both in-house OH teams and OH providers. You can find out more at OrchidLive.com.

New for 2025 is our monthly SOM News Roundup, bringing you the latest stories and insights from SOM and the wider OH world. Hosted by Steve Randall.

Get your tickets for the SOM/FOM Conference in Brighton: https://www.occupationalhealthconferences.com/registration/


Links mentioned in the podcast:

Global Health Workforce Programme Narrative reporting template

SOM Spring Statement response 

HAVS remote health surveillance survey


The SOM podcast is sponsored by Orchid Live - specialist occupational health software used by a number of SOM members to run every aspect of their occupational health operations. They hold healthcare records for over 1 million UK workers and work with both in-house OH teams and OH providers. You can find out more at OrchidLive.com.

The SOM podcast is sponsored by Orchid Live - specialist occupational health software used by a number of SOM members to run every aspect of their occupational health operations. They hold healthcare records for over 1 million UK workers and work with both in-house OH teams and OH providers. You can find out more at OrchidLive.com.

In the second of our ‘mini CPD’ episodes, Neil Greenberg, consultant psychiatrist and President Elect of the Society of Occupational Medicine joins us to talk about pressing issues surrounding mental health in workplaces. 

We talk about how there has been improvement over the last few decades but there is always more that can be done, especially given the large number of (young) people who are currently not working due to mental health challenges. 

For more resources please visit the Society of Occupational Medicine website.

Neil’s contact details are available on his company website March On Stress.

The SOM podcast is sponsored by Orchid Live - specialist occupational health software used by a number of SOM members to run every aspect of their occupational health operations. They hold healthcare records for over 1 million UK workers and work with both in-house OH teams and OH providers. You can find out more at OrchidLive.com.

New for 2025 is our monthly SOM News Roundup, bringing you the latest stories and insights from SOM and the wider OH world. Hosted by Steve Randall.

Get your tickets for the SOM/FOM Conference in Brighton: https://www.occupationalhealthconferences.com/registration/


https://www.som.org.uk/sites/som.org.uk/files/North-west_NHS_Consultant_OH_Physicians_Consensus_document_on_fatigue_risk_management_Feb2025.pdf for the Consensus document on fatigue risk management

The SOM podcast is sponsored by Orchid Live - specialist occupational health software used by a number of SOM members to run every aspect of their occupational health operations. They hold healthcare records for over 1 million UK workers and work with both in-house OH teams and OH providers. You can find out more at OrchidLive.com.

The SOM podcast is sponsored by Orchid Live - specialist occupational health software used by a number of SOM members to run every aspect of their occupational health operations. They hold healthcare records for over 1 million UK workers and work with both in-house OH teams and OH providers. You can find out more at OrchidLive.com.