Suffolk businesses lose 2.1 million working days to sickness each year

Why it matters: According to Suffolk County Council data, lost working days cost Suffolk businesses £432 million in lost productivity last year, quantifying the need for better workplace health support.

The big picture: The council's Good Health at Work Programme aims to tackle this challenge by providing free support to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), focusing particularly on businesses whose employees face the highest health risks.

Key features of the programme include:

• An online resource hub offering practical tools and advice

• A business ambassador network promoting good work practices

• One-to-one support through a dedicated Navigator Service

What they're saying: "Healthy employees are the foundation of healthy businesses," said Councillor Steve Wiles, Cabinet Member for Public Health and Protection. "Last year, Suffolk lost up to 2.1 million working days due to sickness absence, costing £432 million in lost productivity."

Thomas Harley, CEO of Get Set UK, which will deliver the programme, added: "The Good Health at Work programme has been developed to help Suffolk SMEs thrive in today's challenging environment."

How it works: SMEs can join a tiered recognition scheme, starting with a bronze award and progressing to silver and gold as they improve their workplace wellbeing practices against six core standards.

What's next: The programme will run initially for 18 months, with businesses able to access support through goodhealthatwork.co.uk.

The bottom line: With Suffolk businesses losing millions in productivity each year due to employee sickness, the council's new programme offers free support to help local companies create healthier workplaces – but its success will depend on how many SMEs take up the offer.