The majority of employers, 58 per cent, do not have a good understanding of their employees’ health and wellbeing needs, according to Towergate Health & Protection.
According to new research, only 44 per cent of employers strongly agree they have a good understanding of employees’ financial needs.
This is followed by 43 per cent who strongly agree they have a good understanding of their employees’ mental health needs, 42 per cent their physical health and wellbeing needs and 40 per cent their social wellbeing needs.
The survey asked about how employers find out what health and wellbeing support their employees would find beneficial. It highlights that 45 per cent found feedback through line managers or directly beneficial, 43 per cent cited staff surveys, 41 per cent said employee forums and focus groups, 41 per cent cited formal reviews and 38 per cent informal anecdotal feedback.
Towergate Health highlights regularly asking employees about their health and wellbeing support needs and tailoring support towards specific workforces as key.
Towergate Health & Protection head of wellbeing Debra Clark says: “Recognition of the challenges with which employees may be struggling could be better across all four pillars of health and wellbeing. It is vital that employers obtain a better insight into the needs of their workforce, so they are able to better support them.”
Clark adds: “Our research shows that employers do not have a great understanding of the health and wellbeing needs of their employees, but they are making efforts to change this. With a little guidance on what support is available and how best to ensure this fits the needs of their workforce, employers will be able to benefit from healthier, happier and more engaged and productive employees.”