Four out of 10 (43 per cent) employers plan to increase investment in employee benefits over the next year.
The survey, conducted by trade body Group Risk Development (Grid), found thought that 37 per cent of employers said they were planning to fund support for staff directly, rather than using an established employee benefits providers.
The research also found that a greater number of staff are likely to have access to workplace support over the coming year, with 44 per cent of employers looking to extend their provision to more of their workforce.
In addition Grid found that many employers were looking to boost utilisation of current employee benefits, and will be focused on better communications and engagement programmes.
In total 43 per cent of employers said will encourage greater engagement and utilisation of support; 40 per cent will make it easier to access support and benefits, such as via apps/online, and a further 40 per cent said they will increase their communication of the support available to staff.
Grid said this increase in support for employee benefits was to be welcomed, but it warned employers that providing this support directly can be less cost effective, and may risk creating inequalities if is only offered on a more ad-hoc or needs-based basis. It adds where support is predetermined and contracted, such as via a group risk insurer, all employees have access to the same and equal support without preference, prejudice or discrimination.
Grid spokesperson Katharine Moxham says: “Based on these findings, the landscape for employee support is looking positive. We would, however, encourage employers to discuss their approach with experts, both providers and intermediaries, to keep abreast of developments in this fast-changing industry to ensure that the support they offer is both competitive and appropriate. Increased investment is good, but any budget must be spent wisely to get value.”
