Only 31 per cent of employers believe that most of their employees have a good understanding of the full range of benefits provided in their workplace, according to Towergate Health & Protection.
The study of UK businesses of all sizes and across all industries shows a need for significant improvement in benefits communication. According to Towergate, it is crucial that all employees are made aware of and kept up to speed with the complete range of benefits available due to changing employee needs and evolving assistance alternatives.
The study also found that 68 per cent of employers, or more than two-thirds, stated that the majority of their workers have a solid understanding of at least some of the range of benefits provided.
Experts say this gap may be the result of companies placing an excessive focus on some types of benefits or using ineffective communication techniques.
According to Towergate, the responsibility to communicate benefits shouldn’t fall solely on employers. Intermediaries and benefit suppliers can also be helpful. Employers may centralise health and wellbeing support using contemporary technology, making it simple to access.
Although there are improvements, Towergate says businesses must continue to pay close attention to ensure that all employees understand the benefits.
Towergate Health & Protection head of wellbeing Debra Clark says: “An employee may have awareness of the benefits that interest them now but if their circumstances change, they may not know how to access the best support.
“For example, they may not take notice of the mental health support in place as they don’t feel it applies to them. If the situation suddenly changes, and they have a mental health crisis, they won’t know where to find crucial help.
“If employers are investing in health and wellbeing support, then it is vital that they also invest in the communication of this support. A company can offer the best benefits in the industry, but if the employees are not aware of them, then neither they nor the business will reap the rewards. How support will be communicated should be considered upfront as part of the process of selecting benefits.”
