New research reveals an increase in employee health concerns at work
The pandemic has led to an increase in employee concern about discussing mental health and long-term illness in the workplace.
Lockdown is affecting people in many different ways and it’s incredibly worrying that employees feel they must hide their health concerns from their employer for fear of negative consequences. Keeping illness hidden can cause psychological damage to a person’s health. At a time when we all need to support others as much as possible, employers have a duty to support their employees in more ways than just financially.
We recognise that many employers are facing uncertainty about their business’ future. However, employers need to reinforce company values more than ever before by increasing communication, adjusting policies and creating an engaging culture.
This infographic is a snapshot of our recent research (conducted by YouGov on behalf of Reframe and based on 2000 adults in the UK), which uncovered the impact of coronavirus on the health of employees.
Read our tips on supporting your most vulnerable team mates
The number of employees who feel uncomfortable discussing health concerns and are stressed or depressed about this perceived need for secrecy suggests that many employers are not doing enough to support employee wellbeing. A recent survey of employers revealed that only a quarter of firms have a wellbeing programme in place, despite 97 per cent of employers recognising the positive benefits of such provision.
If you’re struggling to develop a joined-up, strategic approach to employee healthcare, we can help. We have four specially designed programmes that provide support for employees experiencing a critical illness, COVID-19, urgent care and the demands of being a carer. Our team of experts can create a bespoke package of employee benefits that ensures your people can access the support they need when they need it most.
Don’t forget about those on furlough
Team members who have already been, or will be, furloughed, are still part of your team. Protecting their social and mental wellbeing will help drive a sense of belonging and boost morale when the employee returns to work, as well as preserve your company’s culture.
View our toolbox on how to support furloughed staff
Coronavirus doesn’t have to send your business back many steps. A carefully designed employee health and wellbeing programme will help you build a resilient workforce that can pre-empt problems and tackle them successfully. Keep absences low and productivity high by investing in personalised and holistic healthcare for employees — it could give you the competitive edge you’ve been looking for.
Reframe has years of experience navigating NHS and private healthcare systems on behalf of our clients. We partner with more than 500 top UK companies and support 880,000 individuals across the country. If you’re not sure where to begin when it comes to employee health and wellbeing, we can help. Get in touch today — we’re here to answer any questions you have about our services and to provide a free quote.