A recent report indicates a significant gap in wellbeing support for UK employees as mental and physical health challenges grow.
- Mental health issues have surged, with many employees reporting declines in wellbeing due to rising living costs and workplace pressures.
- A significant portion of the workforce feels the impact of mental health struggles on job performance, leading to costly absences.
- Many employers fall short in providing adequate wellbeing support, with resources often underutilized by the employees.
- A substantial number of workers are contemplating job changes, seeking employers who offer essential wellbeing benefits.
A recent report underscores a troubling trend: UK employees are increasingly experiencing mental and physical health challenges. This crisis is exacerbated by inadequate workplace support systems and the pressures of rising living costs. Over 30% of those surveyed reported a decline in their mental wellbeing over the past year, highlighting a significant area of concern for employers.
Economic pressures have intensified stress among employees, impacting productivity. Approximately 45% of employees acknowledge that their deteriorating mental health has adversely affected their work within the last year, translating to increased mental health-related absences. These absences alone cost UK employers a staggering £19.5 billion in 2023.
Despite the evident need for strong support systems, 27% of employees report no access to wellbeing resources at work. Furthermore, where these programs exist, a startling 60% of employees refrain from using them. Experts like Vicky Walker from Westfield Health stress the importance of employers investing in comprehensive wellbeing strategies and ensuring employees are aware of available resources.
Interestingly, employees at small and medium enterprises (SMEs) tend to utilize wellbeing programs more frequently when available, even though they often lack access. Of those who have engaged with such support, 66% found it beneficial. However, 42% of employees stated they were never consulted on what wellbeing support they actually needed, suggesting a disconnect between employer offerings and employee needs.
The report also reveals a potential financial burden for businesses failing to meet employee wellbeing needs, with turnover costs projected to reach up to £38.3 billion for larger organizations. To mitigate this, employees have highlighted preferences for benefits such as private health insurance, mental health days, health check-ups, access to counseling, and flexible working hours. These offerings not only help retain talent but also foster a healthier, more productive work environment.
The growing disconnect between employee needs and workplace wellbeing support demands urgent attention from employers to prevent escalating costs and disengagement.
