Understanding the importance of welfare meetings
Joanna Rose · Posted on: February 18th 2025 · read
Welfare meetings are an essential tool for employers to maintain communication and support with employees who are absent from work due to illness, injury, or other personal circumstances. These meetings, as highlighted by ACAS aim to:
- Foster open communication to understand the employee’s circumstances.
- Provide updates on workplace changes and maintain the employee’s connection to their role.
- Offer support to facilitate a smooth return to work where possible.
Best Practice for Conducting Welfare Meetings
- Preparation Preparation: Employers should review the employee’s circumstances and any relevant medical or occupational health reports beforehand.
- Empathy and Support Focus on understanding the employee’s challenges and explore ways to support them.
- Documentation Record the meeting’s discussions and agreed actions to ensure clarity and accountability.
- Follow-Up Maintain regular communication and review progress as needed.
Welfare Provisions and Health & Safety Obligations
Employers in the UK must adhere to strict health and safety (H&S) regulations, particularly if they have five or more employees in line with the Health and Safety at Work etc act 1974. Key provisions include:
• Workplace Facilities: Adequate welfare facilities, such as clean toilets, drinking water, and rest areas, must be provided (HSE guidance).
• Stress and Mental Health: Employers must assess and mitigate workplace stress and provide resources to support employees’ mental health.
Our expert's final thoughts
"If you need support with conducting welfare meetings for individuals with a high level of intermittent absence or from periods of Long-Term Sickness MHA HR Solutions can help guide you through this process with appropriate documentation and support in meetings where required."
