Employee well-being: Why it matters
The well-being of employees is a critical factor in their overall satisfaction, productivity, and performance at work. In recent years, there has been a growing awareness of the importance of employee well-being, and employers are starting to understand that investing in the well-being of their employees is not only good for their employees but also good for their business.
It is widely recognized that employee well-being can have a significant impact on a company's bottom line, including increased productivity and reduced absenteeism. A number of organizations, including the UK government, have launched initiatives aimed at promoting employee well-being and mental health in the workplace. It is also important to note that there are also social and moral benefits to promoting employee well-being.
According to recent surveys and reports, the following statistics provide a snapshot of employee well-being in the UK:
- In 2020, the Office for National Statistics (ONS) found that 47% of UK employees reported high levels of work-related stress.
- The same survey found that approximately one in six employees (17%) reported experiencing work-related anxiety or depression.
- A 2021 report by the Mental Health Foundation found that 61% of UK workers felt overwhelmed by the demands of work and their personal lives.
- The same report found that 43% of employees felt that their mental health had worsened since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic.
These statistics highlight the importance of addressing the well-being of employees in the UK. Employers can take steps to support the mental health of their staff, such as providing flexible working arrangements, promoting work-life balance, and offering access to mental health support resources.
Why is employee well-being important?
A healthy and happy employee is a more engaged, motivated, and productive employee. Research has shown that employees who feel that their well-being is taken seriously by their employer are more likely to be satisfied with their job, have a better work-life balance, and be less likely to experience burnout. This, in turn, leads to increased productivity, better job performance, and higher levels of employee retention.
Employee well-being also has a positive impact on mental and physical health. When employees feel valued, and supported and have a positive work environment, they are less likely to experience stress and burnout, which can have a significant impact on their overall health and well-being.
Why should employers invest in employee well-being?
Investing in employee well-being is not just about being a good employer, it is also about being a smart business decision. Companies that prioritize employee well-being have been shown to have lower levels of absenteeism and employee turnover, which leads to reduced costs and increased productivity.
Moreover, employees who feel valued and supported by their employer are more likely to recommend their company to others and are also more likely to be loyal and stay with the company for longer. This helps companies to build a strong, positive corporate culture and create a workplace where employees feel happy, healthy and fulfilled.
What can employers do to promote employee well-being?
There are many ways that employers can promote employee well-being, some of which include:
- Offering flexible working hours
- Providing access to mental health resources and support
- Encouraging physical activity and healthy eating
- Offering training and development opportunities
- Promoting a positive and supportive work environment
Investing in employee well-being can also involve bigger initiatives, such as implementing an employee assistance program or offering workplace wellness programs. These programs can help to support employees in their physical, mental, and emotional health, which can in turn lead to improved overall well-being and satisfaction at work.
In conclusion, employee well-being is important for both employees and employers. Investing in the well-being of employees leads to increased productivity, better job performance, and higher levels of employee satisfaction and retention. Employers who prioritize the well-being of their employees are making smart business decisions that will benefit both the employees and the company in the long term.
The Doctors Clinic Group takes employee well-being seriously. We work with our corporate clients in a consultative approach to create a bespoke plan that works for you and your team. If this is something that would benefit your team, get in contact with us today so you can live life well.