At Occupational Health Referrals, we specialise in the formal process where an employer seeks professional medical advice to assess an employee’s fitness for work in Swansea . 

Whether addressing short-term absences, chronic illnesses, or mental health challenges, occupational health referrals serve as a vital bridge between clinical insights and effective employment decisions.

Since employee health directly affects performance, productivity, and workplace safety, timely and appropriate referrals are a critical component of effective HR and occupational risk management.

Get a free consultation for occupational health referrals from our team in Swansea today.

What Is an Occupational Health Referral?

An occupational health referral is the procedure through which an employer requests an assessment from an occupational health professional regarding an employee’s health in relation to their job role.

This process is typically initiated when an employee has had frequent absences, is returning from long-term sick leave, or is experiencing health issues that might affect their performance or safety at work.

Since occupational health specialists in Swansea are medically trained and understand the workplace context, they provide unbiased advice to support both the employer and the employee.

When Should Employers Make a Referral?

Employers should make a referral when an employee’s health might be affecting their ability to work safely or effectively.

This usually includes situations where there are repeated short-term absences, long-term sick leave, concerns about mental health, or when workplace adjustments may be required under the Equality Act 2010.

As early intervention often results in faster recovery and improved outcomes, timely referrals are highly recommended.

What Are the Benefits of Occupational Health Referrals in Swansea?

Occupational health referrals offer clear advantages to both employers and employees in Swansea.

The main benefits include:

• Improved support for employee health and well-being
• Reduced sickness absence and quicker return to work
• Evidence-based guidance for managing health issues
• Assistance in meeting legal obligations, including those under the Equality Act 2010
• Identification of suitable adjustments to support continued employment
• Enhanced workplace safety and productivity

As these referrals support proactive and responsible workforce management, they are a key element in maintaining healthy and legally compliant workplaces in Swansea.

What Happens After a Referral Is Made in Swansea?

Once a referral is submitted, the occupational health provider in Swansea will review the information and arrange an assessment with the employee.

Following the assessment, the provider issues a report with recommendations, such as adjustments to duties, phased return plans, or fitness-to-work statements.

As the report is shared with the employer (and usually the employee), it supports informed decision-making about managing health issues in the workplace.

Is Employee Consent Required for a Referral?

Employee consent is legally and ethically required before proceeding with an occupational health referral.

At Occupational Health Referrals in Swansea , personal health information is protected under data protection laws, and referrals involve medical assessments and reporting.

While employees are encouraged to participate for their own benefit, they retain the right to decline the referral or refuse consent to share medical information.

Are Occupational Health Referrals in Swansea Confidential?

Occupational health referrals in Swansea are handled with strict medical confidentiality.

Only relevant parties, typically the employer, employee, and the occupational health provider – are involved in the process.

Since the goal is to support workplace wellbeing while protecting individual privacy, any information shared is limited to what is necessary and appropriate.

What Does an Occupational Health Report Include?

An occupational health report usually includes an assessment of the employee’s fitness for work, recommendations for adjustments, prognosis, and any relevant health-related risks.

As these reports focus on work-related capabilities rather than detailed medical history, they provide objective guidance for workplace decisions.

The report may also advise on timelines for return to work, future reviews, or whether further specialist input is needed.

How Much Does an Occupational Health Referral in Swansea Cost?

The cost of an occupational health referral in Swansea ranges between £200 and £500+ per session, including a written report.

The cost of an occupational health referral varies depending on the provider, the complexity of the case, and the type of assessment required.

Since prices may increase for on-site assessments or complex cases requiring specialist input, employers are encouraged to request a detailed quote in advance.

How Long Do Occupational Health Refferals Take?

From referral submission to receipt of the report, occupation health assessments in Swansea generally takes between 5 to 10 working days.

Initial triage is typically completed within 48 hours, with appointments scheduled shortly thereafter, depending on the provider’s capacity and employee availability.

As efficient turnaround is important for managing absence and risk, many providers offer expedited services where necessary.

Who Can Make a Referral?

In most organisations, referrals are made by line managers, HR personnel, or health and safety officers.

Since the process requires appropriate context and documentation, referrals are generally not accepted directly from employees.

Employees can request a referral in Swansea if they believe their health is impacting their ability to work and they require support or workplace adjustments.

Is the Employee Obligated to Follow the Recommendations?

While there is no legal obligation for employees to follow occupational health advice, employers may use the recommendations to guide decisions on reasonable adjustments, return-to-work plans, or ongoing employment suitability.

Since the advice is impartial and based on medical evidence, employers are encouraged to consider it seriously in line with their legal responsibilities under health and safety and equality legislation.

Can a Referral Be Used in a Disciplinary or Capability Process?

Occupational health reports can be part of the evidence used in disciplinary, capability, or absence management procedures.

As the reports focus on factual medical input and work-related implications, they help ensure that any HR action is based on fair and informed grounds.

In Swansea, employers must still follow due process and consider reasonable adjustments before making any final decisions.

Can Occupational Health Help with Mental Health Issues?

Occupational health professionals in Swansea are trained to assess and advise on mental health issues affecting employees at work.

These may include stress, anxiety, depression, or work-related psychological conditions.

Since mental health concerns can significantly impact work performance and attendance, early referral can facilitate access to appropriate support and reasonable workplace adjustments.

Are There Different Types of Occupational Health Assessments?

Occupational health assessments in Swansea can vary based on purpose and context.

Common types include:

• Pre-employment health checks
• Fitness for work assessments
• Sickness absence reviews
• Return to work evaluations
• Workplace adjustment assessments
• Health surveillance for specific risks (e.g. noise, vibration, hazardous substances)

As the type of assessment depends on the situation, providers tailor each referral to the specific needs of the employer and employee in Swansea.

Get a Free Consultation

Occupational health referrals in Swansea provide essential medical insight that helps organisations manage employee health responsibly and legally.

Since workplace health concerns can impact both individuals and wider operations, having access to timely, expert advice supports better outcomes for all parties involved.

Contact us today to get a free quote for expert Occupational Health Referrals in county.

Find More Info

Make sure you contact us today for a number of great occupational health referrals services.

Here are some towns we cover near Swansea

Uplands, Sketty, Morriston, Gowerton, Barking

For more information on Occupational Health Referrals in Swansea , fill in the contact form below to receive a free quote today.