This is crucial in the uncertain times employers and employees are experiencing alike and a welcome sign of progress from 2010, when Mind found that out of the one in five workers forced to call into work because of stress, 93 per cent of those say they have lied to their boss about the real reason behind their absence. Some organisations had to make a quick switch to remote working, some rolling out infrastructure overnight in March 2020. Isolation from friends and family, balancing caring responsibilities with work, and those facing redundancies are just some of the numerous conditions that risk increasing employee stress in turbulent times.
The prolonged nature of restrictions in place across the UK is a concern for many employers who continue in their efforts to safeguard employee wellbeing and drive employee engagement. At Paydata, we have launched an internal health and wellbeing programme, including Step into 2021, pledging to donate to £1 for every 10,000 steps taken by each of our team members in January. In addition, Mind have numerous resources, including guides to help employees manage their feelings and Wellness Action Plans to tailor support and empower employees to plan their own structures and routines. It is also accompanied on their website by an employer user guide to help manage the process.
5. The value in the reward
It is interesting to note the most valued health and wellbeing elements of wellbeing programmes offered by employers. The three most valued benefits are:
- Flexible working
- Access to counselling services
- Employee Assistance Programme
The three top initiatives are focused on employee health and mental wellbeing; the top valued initiative reflects the current situation, with a large proportion working from home and many juggling their work around other commitments, such as childcare and home schooling.
