The majority of UK workers are ready to forgo small indulgences for better health and wellbeing benefits, according to research by Unum UK.
The research found that 81 per cent of workers would trade a monthly treat for access to benefits related to workplace health and wellbeing, according to the survey.
Around 20 per cent would forgo a couple’s £11–£15 grocery takeaway, and 30 per cent would swap their £3–£5 coffee and pastry habit. Nearly a fifth or 19 per cent of workers would forgo a £6–£10 streaming service, such as Netflix, in exchange for perks centred around their health.
According to 25 per cent of employees aged 18 to 34, they would choose wellbeing benefits over streaming services, indicating that younger workers are most prepared to accept these trade-offs.
Unum UK CEO Mark Till says: “These numbers suggest a powerful new trend, whereby employees are choosing to prioritise their wellbeing over small luxuries. Whilst motivations may vary, from past experience of the positive outcomes of timely support for everyday health concerns to current difficulties accessing health services through the NHS, our research has repeatedly shown that employees are putting increasing importance on their overall health, and now we can see that in monetary terms.
“With a wave of young talent entering the workforce and employees of all ages seeing the value of timely access to quality health and wellbeing benefits, employers have a golden opportunity,” added Mark. “By creating benefits packages that put health and wellbeing front and centre, businesses can offer employees what they really value and build a culture where everyone feels a sense of belonging and engagement.
“During the winter months, the NHS is often stretched even further, and people will be struggling to balance their jobs with personal responsibilities as we approach the end of the year. This puts easily accessible health and wellbeing workplace benefits at the top of the agenda for many employees. Those employers offering comprehensive benefits packages centred around health and wellbeing go a long way to keeping their workforces healthy, happy and productive.”