Health at work: a survey of attitudes, activities and needs of businesses in inner Birmingham

In the summer of 1993 Birmingham City Council commissioned MEL Research to undertake a survey of health promotion activity within small and medium-sized enterprises located in Birmingham's inner city, an area of material deprivation. The purpose of the survey was to build up a baseline of information which would underpin service planning. The research team found the responding companies to be enthusiastic about occupational health issues in principle rather than practice. Nevertheless, about a third had a smoking policy and a similar number an alcohol policy. They were generally happy to promote physical activity and were keen to apply for Heartbeat Awards. Many wanted help in developing an HIV/AIDS policy. This article concludes with a description of the services provided in response to the needs identified by this survey.