JNC Occupational Health Reports 12 Nov 24

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Renfrewshire Joint Negotiating Committee for Teachers 
To: Renfrewshire Joint Negotiating for Teachers 
On: 12 November, 2024 
Occupational Health Reports
Report by
Joint Secretary (Teachers’ Side) 
Background
The Teaching unions welcome the news that referrals to Occupational Health Services are now able
to be turned around more quickly than had been the case previously.  It is a concern however that
PAM, the group contracted by the Local Authority to undertake referrals is not providing the reports
to affected staff directly.  PAM advises that it is the responsibility of the Head teacher to pass on the
report but in some instances there is a failure to do so even when they have been requested.  
Teachers who are referred to Occupational Health should not need to request the documentation-
these should be shared with them at the same time as they are sent to management.  There are a
several reasons for this, not least of which is the need to check accuracy of information that is being
shared based on consultations that have taken place. Also, it is important that teachers, as well as
management are aware of the recommendations arising from the consultations. 
The EIS has longstanding, comprehensive advice of the procedures that should prevail around
Occupational Health Reports.  This can be found at:
https://www.eis.org.uk/health-and-safety-publications/occupational-health
It is important to maintain confidence in the Occupational Health Service and so it is vital that
teachers have readily available access to data pertaining to their own employment and to the written
records of the medical data held by the employer. 
Action
• That PAM, the external agent acting for the Local Authority, be instructed to provide reports
to teachers after consultations.  And, until that is in place that 
headteachers are reminded to provide Occupational Health reports to staff as a matter of
course.