Any Occupational Health people on here?

[OccyHealthWorries]

I have an occupational health meeting for a new job and I'm worried they will say I'm not fit for work. I'm signed off my current job because of workplace bullying and the poor mental health it caused, but I know that I would be capable of doing the new job and, in fact, leaving my current workplace once and for all would do wonders for my mental state. What do you think Occupational Health's view on this would be - I'm praying they'll say I'm fit for work!

I only speak as someone with health conditions. I think they want everybody to work so it is not in their interests to block you. If the job involves vulnerable adults or DC, it would be different. They would need to know you're safe. But if not, they will want to know how you are now and what are your coping strategies if you get stressed again.

@Cipot It is actually working with vulnerable people but I am hoping that is irrelevant as I have never done anything that would suggest I am a danger to them. I just don't want them to think I'm unfit for work.

If that's the case they'll want to know the extent of your illness, so be prepared to answer questions and what treatment you've had. How you are now. How self aware you are, eg can you recognise you're getting ill and seek treatment. What you do to relieve stress. I exercise, eat well, do mindfulness and ask Dr for help if it gets too bad. If you have more serious mental health issues they may not think you're suitable for working with vulnerable clients. If however you had stress as a result of a situation that has now gone, there's a good chance they'll pass you as fit. They aren't trying to block people from working but they have a duty of care to vulnerable clients.

@Cipot That's understandable - they only want the right people in the job. I have developed some coping mechanisms, been through therapy etc. but I think the main thing is that the stressor has is no longer in the picture. Hopefully that is enough for them.

I'm no expert but I'd think so. I've never found OH to be obstructive myself. More that they're just wanting to check you'll cope. It's in nobody's interests to turn away people the employer wants to recruit.

@Cipot That's very true. Hopefully it all goes alright!

Any positive stories/word of advice from anyone else would be much appreciated, too!

Yes. Maybe the employment page would have more advice.