A New Era in Occupational Health: The SOM-COHPA Merger

SOM and COHPA Unite to Shape the Future of Occupational Health

A Stronger Alliance for Workplace Wellbeing

The Society of Occupational Medicine (SOM) and the Commercial Occupational Health Providers Association (COHPA) have joined forces to transform the UK’s occupational health landscape.

SOM brings decades of clinical leadership and multidisciplinary collaboration. Meanwhile, COHPA adds a strong commercial voice and a reputation for promoting quality and accessibility. Together, they form a united partnership focused on improving health outcomes for every employee across the UK.

A Shared Vision for Better Access

Through this merger, COHPA will officially integrate into SOM, aligning their missions under one clear goal — universal access to occupational health services.

All COHPA members will now become Corporate Supporters of SOM, creating a single, influential platform for advocacy and innovation. As a result, the merger will streamline resources, amplify the sector’s voice, and strengthen the overall quality of care available to UK workers.

Moreover, this partnership aims to address the growing challenge of employee ill health, which continues to impact workforce participation and productivity nationwide.

Strengthening the Occupational Health Community

Anna Jones, consultant and former COHPA association manager, described the collaboration as an opportunity to reinforce the sector’s foundations and accelerate innovation.

She believes that by combining expertise and influence, the two organisations can help employers, providers, and practitioners deliver consistent, high-quality occupational health services.

For professionals seeking new roles or organisations looking to attract top talent, the SOM–COHPA merger creates exciting opportunities for growth, collaboration, and knowledge sharing.

Leadership Perspective: SOM CEO Nick Pahl

Nick Pahl, Chief Executive of SOM, welcomed the merger and emphasised its long-term advantages:

“This partnership strengthens the commercial sector’s voice and creates tangible value for members. COHPA members will join SOM as corporate supporters without additional renewal costs, allowing everyone to benefit from shared resources and unified advocacy.”

By reducing duplication and bringing both communities together, the merger will deliver clearer representation and greater impact across the industry.

Benefits for Corporate Supporters

Corporate Supporters of SOM demonstrate a strong commitment to workplace health and wellbeing. Through this status, organisations receive tangible benefits that enhance visibility and connection within the industry.

Supporters can:

• Use the SOM Corporate Supporter logo, which links directly to the Find an OH Provider directory.

• Gain exposure through listings on the SOM website and in monthly e-newsletters.

• Attend exclusive networking meetings with leading occupational health providers.

• Influence policy, research, and public affairs, including events like Occupational Health Awareness Week.

In addition, supporters receive updates from the SOM CEO and one free recruitment advert in the quarterly SOM magazine, with discounted rates for future listings.

Enhanced Access and Professional Development

Corporate Supporters also gain access to the SOM CV Library, connecting them with highly qualified occupational health professionals.

They can participate in special interest groups that focus on priority areas, such as:

• Marketing and communications

• Musculoskeletal (MSK) disorders

• Mental health and wellbeing

• Hand-arm vibration syndrome (HAVS)

Furthermore, a monthly newsletter keeps members informed about new research, upcoming events, and industry developments, ensuring they remain at the forefront of occupational health progress.

A Milestone for the UK Occupational Health Sector

This merger marks a pivotal moment for occupational health. By uniting SOM’s academic and clinical expertise with COHPA’s commercial insight, the collaboration will strengthen service quality, shape national policy, and promote innovation.

Ultimately, this partnership represents a collective step toward a healthier, more productive workforce — one where every employee has access to reliable, evidence-based occupational health support.

Join the Movement Toward Better Health at Work

The SOM–COHPA merger reflects a shared vision for an inclusive, high-performing occupational health sector. Employers, practitioners, and industry leaders are encouraged to stay engaged with this transformation and contribute to its long-term success.

To explore opportunities in occupational health recruitment and discover how you can support the next phase of industry growth, visit www.ohtalentsolutions.co.uk