A recent study highlights a significant disconnect between employers and employees in the U.K. regarding mental health provisions.
- Only 15% of employees feel they have been asked about their mental health needs, despite 54% of employers claiming they have made such inquiries.
- There is a notable gap where 45% of employees value counseling services, but awareness and access remain limited.
- Mismatches exist in the availability and awareness of mental health support, such as workload reviews and mental health leave.
- Improved communication and integrating mental health discussions into routine work processes are essential steps forward.
A recent study by Benenden Health has uncovered a startling mental health ‘expectation gap’ between employers and employees in the U.K. While 54% of employers believe they have asked their employees about mental health provisions, only 15% of employees feel that such inquiries have been made. This disconnect is indicative of a larger issue concerning communication and understanding within workplaces.
The study further reveals that 45% of employees consider counseling services critical, yet these services often remain underutilized or unknown to the workforce. In addition, 40% of employees expressed a need for mental health leave, and 32% sought regular workload reviews. However, awareness and implementation of these provisions are lacking.
There exists a substantial gap in the perceived availability of mental health supports. For example, 47% of employers report offering regular workload reviews, yet a mere 14% of employees confirm receiving them. Similarly, 44% of employers state that mental health sick leave is available, but only 19% of employees acknowledge having access.
Rebecca Mian, Director of People Services at Benenden Health, stresses the importance of prioritizing mental health on par with physical health. She suggests enhancing communication channels so employees are aware of the support available to them. Mian recommends including mental health inquiries in surveys and reviews, using questions like ‘How manageable is your workload?’ to foster openness.
Jemma Williamson, Corporate Mental Health Practitioner at Vita Health Group, emphasizes integrating mental health into workplace culture. By promoting open discussions and providing necessary resources, companies not only improve individual wellbeing but also strengthen workplace resilience. The creation of a supportive environment is deemed crucial for fostering productivity and positivity.
Closing the mental health ‘expectation gap’ requires dedicated effort to enhance communication and provision awareness.
