Pembrokeshire healthcare businesses enjoyed a free training session to help them understand and manage workplace health, safety and wellbeing for workers.

Now in its third year, The Pembrokeshire Employers’ Engagement Project (PEEP) this year focused on the care sector in Pembrokeshire with a training day and inspection intervention programme.

Local healthcare businesses were invited to the Bridge Innovation Centre, Pembroke Dock, last week, to discuss what help they needed for them to manage workplace risks. They were then directed to sources of business support for health, safety and wellbeing.

The day was hosted by the West Wales Branch of the Institute of Occupational Safety and Health (IOSH) in partnership with Health and Safety Executive (HSE), Pembrokeshire County Council and Healthy Working Wales.

Safe care is a fundamental part of an ageing population being well looked after. By promoting and raising awareness of health and safety standards, the project enables owners, managers and others to better manage the health, safety and wellbeing of employees, residents and others, taking a collective ownership.

Other partners included Pembrokeshire Housing, Pembrokeshire College, Elliots Hill Care and Forest Care Homes and the event provided targeted, relevant advice, information and useful materials from exhibitors for delegates to take away.

Neil Craig, HSE’s head of operations, said: “For small and medium sized enterprises managing workplace risks shouldn’t be complicated or costly.

“Through sensible and proportionate risk management, businesses can see the many benefits a good health and safety culture can bring. Everyone has a vital role in managing risk and preventing harm to individuals, businesses and the economy.”

Mike Davies, chair of the Pembrokeshire Care Home Forum, said: “There has been very positive feedback from those who attended the event regarding the level of expertise they have been able to access as well as the signposting given to other support avenues available.

“This event has provided practical support to those within the industry here in Pembroke so that we can move forward together to improve the health, safety and wellbeing standards for our business, staff and residents.”

The health and safety system strategy for Great Britain, ‘Helping Great Britain Work Well’ brings together employers, workers, regulators, government representatives, professional bodies, trade associations and unions to continue to improve on our already excellent health and safety record. The collective aim is to continue to boost productivity, support innovation and encourage business growth.