The SOM Podcast
The Society of Occupational Medicine (SOM) is the UK organisation for healthcare professionals working in occupational health. This podcast covers topics relevant to occupational health practice, featuring discussions and insights from experts in the field. It is sponsored by Orchid Live, a specialist occupational health software provider.
Episodes
SOM MINI CPD: Modernizing Spirometry in OH with Z Scores with Rebecca Burton
In this monthly Continuing Professional Development (CPD) episode of the SOM Podcast, host Steve Randall talks with Rebecca Burton, a qualified occupational health advisor with over 11 years of experience and a clinical trainer for Diagtech. The conversation centres around spirometry screening in occupational health settings and explores why traditional diagnostic criteria are increasingly being s
SOM NEWS UPDATE - SEPTEMBER 2026
Our monthly SOM News Update brings you the latest stories and insights from SOM and the wider OH world. Hosted by Steve Randall.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 tea
RESEARCH: What Australia Can Teach the UK About Workplace Rehab
In this episode of the SOM Podcast, Steve Randall interviews occupational health physiotherapist Katherine Roberts about her benchmark research comparing practice in the UK and Australia., supported by the Society of Occupational Medicine’s Jubilee Travel Fellowship.She highlights the structural differences in funding models and titling pathways between both countries. Her insights reveal how esta
SOM MINI CPD: AI and Audiometry in Occupational Health with Trevor Chapman
In our latest Mini-CPD episode, Steve Randall speaks with audiologist Trevor Chapman about how artificial intelligence and machine learning are transforming workplace hearing health.Trevor breaks down how validated machine learning algorithms enable faster, highly consistent hearing screenings without replacing human clinicians. The discussion covers practical applications, including proactive Tem
SOM NEWS UPDATE - AUGUST 2026
Our monthly SOM News Update brings you the latest stories and insights from SOM and the wider OH world. Hosted by Steve Randall.--Links mentioned in the podcast:The SOM Leadership Conference 2026The BMJ is calling for young people to get mental health and employment support before they receive a formal diagnosis. Campaigners are calling on the Health and Safety Executive to recognise work-related
SOM MINI CPD: Burnout with Jalees Razavi
In this episode, host Steve Randall sits down with occupational medicine specialist Jalees Razavi to tackle the widespread, critical issue of workplace burnout in 2026. Jalees debunks the common myth that burnout is merely an individual psychological flaw or a "mood issue," reframing it strictly as a structural, organizational failing.The conversation explores how constant digital accessibility, u
SOM NEWS UPDATE - JULY 2026
Our monthly SOM News Update brings you the latest stories and insights from SOM and the wider OH world. Hosted by Steve Randall.--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.pdfKeep Britain Working Update: https://www.som.org.uk/sites/som.org.uk/files/KB
Exploring the Future of Occupational Health
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
SOM MINI CPD - Hearing Loss & Tinnitus: The Poor Relation of Health? with Clare Forshaw
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
SOM NEWS UPDATE - JUNE 2026
Our monthly SOM News Update brings you the latest stories and insights from SOM and the wider OH world. Hosted by Steve Randall.--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 EmployeesWork Right: What is health surv
Future of Work, AI, and Occupational Health: Navigating Change and Uncertainty
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, touch
SOM MINI CPD - Sleep Health & the Role of OH Professionals with Werner Stipp
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 driv
SPECIAL: Cold Stress, UV, and Community: Insights from an Arctic Research Trip
In this episode, Steve Randall speaks with with Dr. Emma Wallace, a recipient of the SOM Golden Jubilee Award. Emma shares her journey from anaesthetics to occupational medicine and her recent research expedition to Ny-Ålesund, the world’s northernmost permanent settlement.She discusses the physiological challenges of extreme cold, the hidden risks of UV exposure in icy climates, and how the uniqu
SOM NEWS UPDATE - MAY 2026
Our monthly SOM News Update brings you the latest stories and insights from SOM and the wider OH world. Hosted by Steve Randall.--Links mentioned in the podcast:Prof Neil Greenberg Letter to the Editor in The Observer.Occupational Health Awareness Week 2026, 21st-27th Sept, brief here.Annual General Meeting of SOM 2026, 16th June 5.15-6.15pm - A draft agenda is here. SOM/FOM Conference: Occupation
SOM MINI CPD: Going Independent in Occupational Health with Lanre Ogunyemi
In this episode of the SOM Podcast, we welcome back Lanre Ogunyemi, independent occupational health physician and former president of the Society of Occupational Medicine, to explore what it really takes to build a successful independent career in occupational health.Lanre shares his personal journey from the NHS into independent practice, including how he managed the transition, the importance of
SOM NEWS UPDATE - APRIL 2026
Our monthly SOM News Update brings you the latest stories and insights from SOM and the wider OH world. Hosted by Steve Randall.--Links mentioned in the podcast:The Right to Disconnect: https://www.alliancembs.manchester.ac.uk/media/ambs/content-assets/documents/news/right-to-disconnect-report.pdf Major cultural shift needed in workplace fertility support: https://www.som.org.uk/major-cultural-shi
Menopause, Work and What We’re Still Getting Wrong - with Carolyn Harris MP
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 re
GLOBAL CMO PODCAST - EP 2 - Workforce Health as a Strategic Asset with Dr Katherine Carandang Chua
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,
SOM NEWS UPDATE - MARCH 2026
Our monthly SOM News Update brings you the latest stories and insights from SOM and the wider OH world. Hosted by Steve Randall.--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-hea
SOM MINI CPD - Designing Workplace Health That Actually Works with Amy McKeown
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 Burber
GLOBAL CMO PODCAST - EP 1 - From Boardroom to Biopharma with Dr David Roomes
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 organisa
SOM NEWS UPDATE - FEBRUARY 2026
Our monthly SOM News Update brings you the latest stories and insights from SOM and the wider OH world. Hosted by Steve Randall.--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.pdfExpanded WorkWell scheme: ht
From the Factory Floor to Global Policy: A Conversation with Dr. Ivan Ivanov
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 Organ
SOM MINI CPD - Coaching Psychology with Fiona Day
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
FIT NOTES: Are We Using Them as Intended?
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 o
SOM 90th ANNIVERSARY 'DIAMOND DAYS' - EP5 - The Good, the Bad & the Ugly of AI
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
SOM MINI CPD - Coaching Skills with Mandy Murphy
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 tra
SOM 90th ANNIVERSARY 'DIAMOND DAYS' - EP4 - Broadening the Focus of OH for the Future
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 r
SOM 90th ANNIVERSARY 'DIAMOND DAYS' - EP3 - Dame Carol Black: Reinventing Occupational Health
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
Is Work Really Good for Health? Revisiting the Evidence with Kim Burton & Janet O’Neill
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 rep
SOM NEWS UPDATE - NOVEMBER 2025
Our monthly SOM News Update brings you the latest stories and insights from SOM and the wider OH world. Hosted by Steve Randall.--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-abs
SOM 90th ANNIVERSARY 'DIAMOND DAYS' - EP2 - Keep Britain Working: How HR and Occupational Health Can Join Forces
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
SOM MINI CPD - Artficial Stone Silicosis with Jo Feary
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 sh
SOM NEWS UPDATE - OCTOBER 2025
Our monthly SOM News Update brings you the latest stories and insights from SOM and the wider OH world. Hosted by Steve Randall.--Links mentioned in the podcast:SOM Occupational Health Awards 2025 - now open!HR professionals underestimate role of OH in employee wellbeing, new YouGov survey revealsNye’s lost legacy: Towards a National Occupational Health Service to keep people well in work. Read mo
SOM 90th ANNIVERSARY 'DIAMOND DAYS' - EP1 - Like Father, Like Son
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 c
SOM FAM GROUP - Support Conversations
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:
SOM CAREERS MINI-SERIES - psychotherapist & clinical director, Nicola Jagielski
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
SOM CAREERS MINI-SERIES - Senior occupational health physician, Sarwar Chowdhury
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 O
SOM CAREERS MINI-SERIES - Occupational health nurse, Matt Higginson
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 - s
SOM CAREERS MINI-SERIES - Occupational therapists, Lisa Harrison & Karen Phillpotts
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 sponsor
SOM CAREERS MINI-SERIES - Musculoskeletal physiotherapist, Karli Gibson
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 Liv
SOM CAREERS MINI-SERIES - Mental health nurse in OH, Alex Rhind
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 - sp
SOM NEWS UPDATE - SEPTEMBER 2025
Our monthly SOM News Update brings you the latest stories and insights from SOM and the wider OH world. Hosted by Steve Randall.--Links mentioned in the podcast:Free resources for Occupational Health Awareness Week from SOMUK Government research on Understanding Occupational Health ProvisionTUC review: Keep Britain working: an independent review into the role of employers in health and disabilityB
SOM MINI CPD: Cannabis Prescriptions with Helen Vangikar
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 org
SOM FAM GROUP -Discussing the Pathway to Work Green Paper
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 c
SOM NEWS UPDATE - AUGUST 2025
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 - 2025Register 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
SOM FAM GROUP - Reasonable Adjustments
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 emp
SOM NEWS UPDATE - JULY 2025
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 - 2025Register 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:Occupational Health Audits guidance Pathways to Work: Reforming Benefits an
SOM MINI CPD: Chronic Pain with Richmond Stace
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 “under
OCCUPATIONAL THERAPISTS SERIES - EP 4 - Vocational Rehab
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
SOM NEWS UPDATE - JUNE 2025
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 - 2025Register 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 electionThe SOM podcast is sponsored by Orchid Live - special
OCCUPATIONAL THERAPISTS SERIES - EP 3 - Fatigue
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
SOM NEWS UPDATE - MAY 2025
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 DustSOM 90th Anniversary DinnerThe SOM podcast is sponsored by Orchid Live - spec
SOM MINI CPD: Long Covid with Clare Rayner
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
Workplace wellbeing programmes and behavioural science
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
SOM FAM GROUP - Work and Health
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 impor
OCCUPATIONAL THERAPISTS SERIES - EP 2 - Functional Capacity Evaluations
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 dis
SOM NEWS UPDATE - April 2025
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 templateSOM Spring Statement response HAVS remote h
MINI CPD: Mental Health in the Workplace with Prof. Neil Greenberg
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 curr
SOM NEWS UPDATE - March 2025
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/Click here for the Consensus document on fatigue risk managementThe SOM podcast is sponsored by Orchid Live - specialist occupational he
OCCUPATIONAL THERAPISTS SERIES - EP 1 - Cognition
In this inaugural episode of a new SOM podcast series, we delve into the vital role of occupational therapists in occupational health, with a special focus on cognitive functioning. Join Jo Vallom-Smith and Lisa Harrison as they discuss the intricacies of cognition, the common cognitive conditions encountered in the workplace, and the impact these conditions have on various job roles.Gain insights
SOM FAM GROUP - Safeguarding
In this episode, we explore the critical role of safeguarding within functional assessment medicine with healthcare professionals Dr. Karen Wallace, Dr. Mark Randall, and Helen Valls-Russell.They discuss the importance of understanding functional assessment and its implications for patient safety, particularly in the context of work and health.Tune in to learn about the challenges faced in safegua
MINI CPD: Neurodiversity for OH Professionals with Dr Nancy Doyle
In the first of our ‘mini CPD’ episodes, Dr. Nancy Doyle, founder of Genius Within, joins us to discuss neurodiversity and its implications for occupational health professionals. We explore how understanding neurodiversity can foster inclusivity in the workplace and enhance employee wellbeing. Dr. Doyle provides insights into the differences between neurodivergent and neurotypical individuals, the
SOM NEWS UPDATE- February 2025
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.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
SOM FAM GROUP - A Patient's Journey
In this episode, join Dr Karen Wallace, Dr Emma Hogan and Dr Sathya Partheeban as they delve into the intricacies of the work capability assessment process and the vital connection between health and work.They provide insights into the journey of patients from the GP's office to the assessment, explaining the roles of healthcare professionals and the importance of accurate medical evidence. This e
ONS economic inactivity data - Our take on the latest stats
The Office for National Statistics has today published its latest data on economic inactivity.SOM CEO Nick Pahl and president-elect Neil Greenberg have been looking at the stats. The data release is available on the ONS 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 oper
Occupational Health Placements
In this episode of the SOM Podcast, we discuss occupational health placements and their role in growing the interest and understanding of occupational health (OH). Our panel of experts, Janet O’Neill, Deputy Head of the National School of Occupational Health, Karen Lever, Head of the Occupational Health Department at Keele University, and David Nti-Jackson, Clinical Practice Lecturer at Keele Univ
A career in Occupational Medicine
Are you interested in a career in occupational medicine? In this episode of the SOM Podcast, occupational health physicians Dr Richard Peters and Dr Jayne Moore discuss the specialty of occupational medicine (OM) and what a career in OM entails. Discover how this specialty balances the impact of work on health and vice versa, the importance of workplace risk assessments, and the journey to becomin
Disability Passports
In this episode of the SOM Podcast, Angela Matthews, Head of Policy and Research at Business Disability Forum and Mandy Whalley, founder of The Empowerment Passport™ and registered occupational therapist, discuss the need for and many benefits of disability passports.Angela and Mandy explain how these passports are helping employees with disabilities and long-term conditions manage their workplace
Working together in multidisciplinary teams
Working together in multidisciplinary teamsThe 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.
A career in functional assessment medicine
A career in functional assessment medicine requires the ability to transfer and apply clinical and occupational health skills to establish a person’s functional capability. It is not about diagnosis, but focused on function and limitations secondary to the medical conditions. A career in functional assessment medicine can offer a good work-life balance, and is open to professionals of various bac
A career in occupational psychology
How do we help the world of work become a place where we all thrive and not just survive?Occupational psychologists explore questions such as:How do we motivate people so that they can perform to the best of their abilities?How do we support individuals who have caring responsibilities elsewhere?How can we improve creativity across people in different industries?How do we help organisations retain
Occupational health nursing - the career for you?
Are you are a registered nurse looking for different career options?This podcast from The Society of Occupational Medicine (SOM) discusses the fabulous specialty of occupational health nursing. It will give you ideas of how to explore this specialty, decide if it is for you and training options. Anna Harrington speaks with Janet O'Neill about her years of experience as an OH nurse and why it has n
GP Essentials Series - Ep 3 - The relationship between work and health with Dr Rob Hampton
Episode 3: The relationship between work and health with Dr Rob HamptonIn the third episode of our GP Essentials podcast series, Dr Lara Shemtob talks to Dr Rob Hampton about the relationship between work and health, the role of GPs in helping patients stay in or return to work, and what an occupational health consultation can offer that is difficult to achieve in a GP consultation.They explore th
GP Essentials Series - Ep2 - Work and mental health with Professor Neil Greenberg
The SOM Podcast: GP Essentials seriesEpisode 2: Work and mental health with Professor Neil GreenbergMental ill health accounts for around a third of all fit notes issued and is the most common reason for issuing a fit note in General Practice. In this second episode of our GP Essentials series, Dr Lara Shemtob speaks to Professor Neil Greenberg about why so many people are signed off with mental i
GP Essentials Series - Ep1 - How to get the most out of the fit note with Dr Jonathan Leach OBE
The SOM Podcast: GP Essentials seriesOver 6 million fit notes were issued by GPs last year – almost 95% of which were signed off as not fit for work without using the options for workplace adjustments and advice. Deciding whether someone is fit to work is a difficult decision that can have a huge impact on the individual and at the societal level, however this is not a topic emphasised in GP train
Neurodiversity and the workplace
The fifth episode of our new Podcast series on work and health explores the topic of neurodiversity in the workplace. Unlike many other types of diversity, neurodiversity can be invisible; this combined with the stigma that surrounds neurodiverse conditions means that neurodiversity doesn’t always have the voice of other diverse groups.In this episode, Helena Brady, senior occupational health advi
Diversity and Inclusion as an Occupational Health Issue
The COVID-19 pandemic exposed existing inequalities within society, with disproportionate outcomes relating to socio-economic status, ethnicity, gender, age, geographic location, and ability. SOM established its Diversity and Inclusion Task Force last year in response to this, with the aim of supporting occupational health (OH) professionals, employees and businesses navigate the post pandemic lan
Avoiding snake oil in workplace health – what is the evidence base?
In the third episode of this new Podcast series from The Society of Occupational Medicine (SOM), we discuss evidence based approaches to return to work following the COVID-19 pandemic. The COVID-19 pandemic has intensified the transformational shift from largely workplace based employment to a hybrid model. Although working from home will remain for many, others will be returning to their employer
Return to the Workplace
In the second episode of this new Podcast series from The Society of Occupational Medicine (SOM), we explore the many challenges around return to the workplace as COVID-19 pandemic restrictions end. For employers there are multiple concerns, such as balancing rebooting operations with keeping their team safe, along with managing expectations about how the working model will be in the long-term. Em
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