Stress management support for UK workers is experiencing a notable increase, as recent research unveils a rising trend.
- A legal obligation exists for employers under key health and safety regulations to ensure employee wellbeing, highlighting the importance of stress management.
- Current studies indicate a significant rise in stress management benefits offered by employers, climbing from 25% in 2013 to 40% now.
- Employee Assistance Programs and counseling services are gaining popularity, with more employees valuing these benefits.
- Expert voices within the industry emphasize the need for proactive stress management to enhance productivity and morale.
Stress management is increasingly recognized as essential for UK workers, with employers being legally required to address it under the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 and related regulations. The commitment to this responsibility is growing, as evidenced by the increase in stress management benefits, which have risen from 25% of employers offering them in 2013 to 40% currently. These efforts are pivotal in minimizing stress-related illnesses and injuries among employees.
The Health and Safety Executive offers extensive guidance and presents successful case studies to encourage employers to effectively manage stress within their organizations. According to Mike Blake, Director of PMI Health Group, unaddressed stress and mental health issues have severe implications on both employee wellbeing and organizational performance. His insights stress the necessity of tackling stress proactively, given its status as the leading cause of long-term sickness absence among non-manual workers in the UK.
Research further reveals a growing appreciation for stress management benefits among employees. Currently, 14% of workers prioritize counseling services and Employee Assistance Programs as notable workplace benefits, showing a significant increase from only 9% in 2013. These programs not only enhance employee wellbeing but also demonstrate a solid moral and business rationale for their implementation.
Adrian Lewis, Commercial Director for Activ Absence, highlights the effectiveness of early identification of stress-related absence patterns through specialized software. However, he insists that proactively addressing these issues is crucial, as mental health concerns extend beyond employment, affecting all aspects of individuals’ lives. By prioritizing mental health, employers can reduce the cost of absence and improve overall workplace wellbeing.
Employers are more proactive than ever in addressing workplace stress, benefiting both staff and organizational performance.
