Health Issues at Work Affect 68% of UK Employees

In today’s fast-paced and demanding work environment, it is imperative that we prioritise the health and well-being of employees. Health issues such as back pain, cardiovascular disease, exhaustion, and mental fatigue remain a critical issue for many workers in the UK, underscoring the need for increased support from employers. 

Unexpectedly, the number of people on long-term sick leave is rising, resulting in significant economic losses each year. These urgent concerns remind us that different industries face unique health challenges that require tailored solutions. 

In this Pacific Prime UK article, we will delve into the importance of supporting employees to stay well at work, explore today’s challenges, and highlight the significance of sector-specific approaches to address diverse health concerns.

The Impact of Employment to Health

Our jobs and workplaces have a significant influence on our health and well-being since adults in employment dedicate a substantial amount of their time to work. This impact extends beyond individuals and affects their families and communities as well.

Numerous studies provide compelling evidence that good work positively affects health and well-being throughout a person’s life, not only in terms of economic benefits but also in enhancing their overall quality of life. 

When we refer to “good work,” we are not only considering a safe work environment but also factors such as a sense of security, autonomy, effective line management, and clear communication within the organisation.

Additionally, government research indicates that high-quality work plays a protective role in preventing social exclusion and promoting well-being. This is achieved through the provision of the following:

1. Income: Good quality work ensures a reliable income that contributes to financial stability and well-being.
2. Social Interaction: Meaningful work fosters opportunities for social engagement and connection, promoting a sense of belonging and support.
3. Core Role: Engaging in work that aligns with an individual’s skills and interests provides a sense of purpose and fulfilment.
4. Identity and Purpose: Meaningful work helps individuals develop a sense of identity, self-worth, and a clear sense of purpose in their lives.

On the other hand, the negative impact of employment on health and well-being is commonly associated with a higher risk of mortality and morbidity, including the following: 

1. Long-Term Illness: Chronic illnesses that last over a long period of time and require continuous monitoring and treatment. 
2. Cardiovascular Disease: Conditions affecting the heart and blood vessels.
3. Poor Mental Health: Emotional and psychological difficulties impairing well-being.
4. Suicide: Intentional act of ending one’s own life.
5. Health-Harming Behaviours: Actions with negative impact on physical and mental well-being.

Health Problems and Challenges UK Employees Face

Today, UK employees face issues with health problems stemming from the workplace, inadequate healthcare support from their employers, and inadequate access to mental health support. 

High Prevalence of Health Problems at Work

According to research by Simplyhealth, almost 68% of employees have reported suffering from health problems at work. This section highlights the findings of a survey conducted among 4,000 UK adults regarding their workplace health and wellbeing.

Inadequate Support from Employers

Approximately 70% of the survey respondents expressed the opinion that employee health support schemes should be offered by every employer. Moreover, 36% of employers do not provide health schemes such as health cash plans, employee assistance programs, or private medical insurance.

Inadequate Mental Health Support

Nearly 61% of employees who have experienced mental health challenges expressed a desire for mental health support. Additionally, access to counselling was identified by 24% of respondents as a factor that would make them happier, and 21% believed it would enhance their productivity. 

For a better overview, below is a table summarising a survey conducted by Simplyhealth surrounding the challenges that UK employees face in relation to workplace health and wellbeing: 

UK Employee Workplace Health Survey (Sample Group n = 4000)

68% of employees reported suffering from health problems at work.

Nearly 19 million days are taken off due to physical health problems alone.

25% of respondents felt their workplace did not support managing their pain.

42% attributed back pain to a lack of access to physiotherapy support.

20% believe workplace benefits offering physiotherapy access would increase happiness.

70% think every employer should offer employee health support schemes.

36% of employers do not offer health schemes like health cash plans or private medical insurance.

61% of employees with mental health challenges want managers to direct them to mental health support.

24% believe access to counselling would increase happiness.

21% think it would improve productivity.

46% of managers have received no training to support employees with health problems.

39% are unsure of how to guide employees to health services or benefits provided by the employer.

 

A Call for Tailored Employee Benefits Solutions

Employers should look to provide employee benefits that take into account all their financial, health, and workplace related needs, especially as they age into different stages of their careers. 

By supporting employees on the following fronts, they will be able to live healthier lives within and outside the workplace: 

Financial Well-Being

Offering retirement benefits to employees has a significant influence on their current and future lives. By doing so, a strong bond of trust and commitment is established between the employer and the employee, which encourages employees to stay with the company and improve productivity.

Although setting up and managing retirement benefit plans can be time-consuming and expensive, it ultimately contributes to improved employee retention by showing that the employer recognizes and supports employees at different stages of their career paths.

Physical and Mental Wellbeing 

Approximately a quarter of workers in the UK have stated that they have a physical health condition, but less than half of them feel that their employer provides adequate support for their physical and emotional well-being. 

As an employer, you have the opportunity to enhance physical health and aid employees with existing physical conditions by implementing employee health and wellness programs focused on physical well-being and by sharing health-related tips.

Workplace Benefits

Workplace benefits are focused on making the workplace a pleasant and fun place to work, helping employees look forward to arriving at work each and every day, and treating the workplace not only as an office but also as a refuge. 

In addition to enhancing your work environment with the usual recreational activity rooms for exercise and providing amenities like coffee and occasional lunch, workplace benefits can extend further to include:

• Flexible work schedule: Allowing employees to have flexibility in their work hours or remote work options can promote work-life balance and accommodate personal needs.
• Casual dress days: Implementing casual dress days or a relaxed dress code policy can contribute to a more comfortable and relaxed work atmosphere.
• Professional development and team building opportunities: Providing opportunities for employees to enhance their skills and knowledge through workshops, training programs, outings, or conferences can contribute to their career growth and job satisfaction.
• Employee assistance programs: Providing access to counselling services, financial advice, or legal support can help employees navigate personal challenges and improve overall well-being.

Elevate Your Employee Benefits

Being an employer means taking into account the lives of your employees. To show your commitment, implement employee benefit programs that meet every mark with the help of experts. 

Pacific Prime UK is an employee benefits and international health insurance brokerage firm with decades of experience. If your company is in need of an employee benefits program to help attract and retain employees, you can learn more about our corporate solutions.

Contact us today so our insurance experts can help you put together a plan that works for your company.