Almost one in two businesses has failed to communicate with employees about their planning for Brexit, according to a new research.
The survey, by Howden Employee Benefits found that only 12 per cent of employers have been regularly communicating with their staff about the preparations their businesses were making for Brexit.
A third (33 per cent) of respondents said there had been “limited communciations” while 45 per cent said they have not given any information to employees about this issue.
Howden Employee Benefits head of benefits strategy Steve Herbert says this lack of communication has potentially serious ramifications in terms of employee wellbeing.
He says there are concerns this could damage employee engagement levels leading to lower productivity, if staff are anxious about future job security and employment rights.
In some cases this could exacerbate mental health issues in the workplace.
Herbert says: “Regardless of whether you are for or against Brexit, the reality is that it represents the single biggest issue for UK employers and employees in many of our lifetimes, and right now millions of workers across the nation are deeply unsettled and concerned about their jobs, future employment rights, and earnings potential.
“Employees are looking for support, guidance, and reassurance from their employer in such circumstances, yet it is apparent from our research that many organisations are just not offering any assistance in this important area.
The company urges businesses to issue regular and comprehensive communications to their workers.
Herbert adds: “We would also strongly suggest that company sponsored health and wellbeing tools are offered and promoted to assist those employees who are most concerned by the current political impasse and business uncertainty.”
Herbert says Employee Assistance Plans, remote access to a GP, private medical insurance and financial education tools can all play an important part in the worker’s support structure at a time of uncertainty for many businesses.
This survey was conducted among HR and finance professionals.