New research highlights a concerning gap between employee wellbeing needs and workplace support.
- 30% of employees report a decline in mental health over the past year.
- Financial pressures from rising living costs add to employee stress.
- 45% of employees’ mental health issues have impacted their work productivity.
- 60% of workers with access to wellbeing programs do not utilise them.
A recent report by a leading wellbeing provider sheds light on the increasing mental and physical health challenges faced by UK employees. Despite significant stress linked to financial pressures and other factors, there remains substantial insufficient support within workplaces, signalling a disconnection between employee needs and employer-provided resources.
Recently conducted research highlights that nearly 30% of employees have reported a decline in their mental wellbeing over the last year. This situation is exacerbated by the rising cost of living, which adds a layer of financial pressure to the workforce’s already significant mental health struggles.
The impact of mental health challenges on productivity is notable, with 45% of employees reporting that their mental health issues have affected their work performance in the past year. This has contributed to a substantial increase in mental health-related absences, costing UK employers approximately £19.5 billion in 2023.
Despite the growing need for mental health support, there is a notable lack of participation in available workplace wellbeing programs. Surprisingly, 60% of employees who have access to these resources have never engaged with them. This highlights the importance of not only providing support but also effectively communicating its availability and benefits to employees.
Businesses are urged to enhance their investment in health and wellbeing initiatives and to clearly articulate the support options available to employees. As Vicky Walker, a Group Director of People, advises, “Regular feedback will help to measure the success of your workplace wellbeing strategy accurately.” Employers must prioritise understanding and addressing what their workforce truly needs in order to improve their wellbeing support.
A significant portion of the workforce is considering a job change, driven by inadequate support and unmet wellbeing needs. Employees express a strong desire for benefits such as private health insurance, access to a 24/7 GP line, and mental health days, among others. The flexibility of working hours also plays a crucial role in their decision-making process, with many employees fearing a reduction in remote work opportunities.
Addressing these issues head-on is crucial if businesses are to prevent further losses, both financially and in terms of employee wellbeing. Investing in comprehensive support and ensuring clear communication about these resources are vital steps employers must take to bridge the current gap in wellbeing support.
Proactive measures and clear communication are essential for businesses to effectively support employee wellbeing and sustain productivity.
