Some 43% of UK businesses don’t have a formal health and wellbeing strategy in place, according to new research, with the findings suggesting that these companies are likely to find their benefits are not as effective as they could be in their support for employees.
The research, from employee benefits specialist Everywhen, shows that for 18% of companies, simply offering benefits is their strategy, with 13% only offering support on an ad-hoc basis according to need. The good news is that 51% of UK companies do have a documented health and wellbeing strategy, which is regularly updated.
Debra Clark, head of wellbeing at Everywhen, said: “For wellbeing support to have the most impact it must be part of a strategy that considers the needs of the workforce and the objectives of the company in offering that support.”
She suggests that a strategic approach to health and wellbeing benefits will help to ensure that they are as effective as possible. This will help to support the company objectives, for example, boosting recruitment and retention of talent or addressing issues of absence. It is only by analysing the specific needs of the workforce and the company that the health and wellbeing support can be tailored to meet these requirements.
Understand employee needs
Offering support reactively, as currently happens in 13% of companies, is likely to only capture the needs of those employees who shout the loudest or who are prepared to openly ask for assistance. Many employees would rather access support anonymously and may be put off from seeking help by this ad-hoc approach.
Likewise, it is often better to survey the workforce anonymously to obtain a true appreciation of their real requirements.
Understand business needs
In practice, a formal health and wellbeing strategy will also mean having a good understanding of the needs of the business itself and how health and wellbeing support can align. It is a mistake to forget that an important aspect of health and wellbeing is actually to support the business, through supporting the employees.
Empower Up has a dedicated section on Health & Wellbeing, including guidance and insights. You can find it here.
