Serco, a global services company, has announced the expansion of its online physiotherapy service to support employees working across its Justice and Immigration sectors. This follows the success of a pilot scheme at several Serco-operated facilities, including HMP Thameside and the Derwentside Immigration Removal Centre. The expanded programme, in partnership with PhysioFastOnline (PFO), aims to address the physical health needs of employees working in challenging environments.
The service, provided by PFO, allows Serco staff to access same-day appointments with registered physiotherapists via video consultations. Employees can seek assistance for a range of issues, from musculoskeletal conditions and joint pain to breathing difficulties and women’s health concerns. The confidential nature of the service ensures that any data collected is anonymous and used solely to identify broader health trends within the workforce.
Staff will not need a referral from their GP or management to make use of the service, which is available at no cost to employees. This quick and flexible access to care is particularly valuable for those with unpredictable work schedules, such as prison officers and immigration workers, who often struggle to secure traditional healthcare appointments due to their shifts.
The initial 12-month programme will be offered across Serco’s Justice and Immigration sectors, providing coverage to a larger employee base and helping to tackle health-related issues in the workforce. Serco hopes the service will encourage staff to prioritise their well-being, knowing that expert help is just a video call away.
Nicky Kemp, Serco’s Head of Health and Social Care Partnerships, highlighted the importance of the initiative in supporting staff who perform physically and emotionally demanding roles. She said, “At Serco, we understand the pressures faced by our employees, particularly in the Justice and Immigration sectors. The ability to access physiotherapy at short notice, for both work and non-work-related issues, provides essential support for our staff. We want to ensure that they have the resources to manage their health effectively, even if they work irregular hours.”
Katie Knapton, CEO of PhysioFastOnline, spoke about the broader impact of workplace musculoskeletal conditions and the benefits of early intervention. “Untreated musculoskeletal issues can lead to long-term pain and increased absenteeism, placing a burden on both the individual and the organisation. Our online service allows employees to receive timely treatment and tailored exercise plans, which not only helps them recover faster but also improves their long-term well-being.”
The introduction of this online physiotherapy service reflects Serco’s continued commitment to employee well-being. By offering preventative healthcare solutions, Serco hopes to reduce the risk of absenteeism while promoting a healthier and more engaged workforce.
The pilot programme’s success has highlighted the positive impact of convenient access to physiotherapy, and the company is optimistic about its potential benefits across a wider range of employees in the coming year.
