One in five employees in favour of mandatory reporting on physical and wellbeing initiatives

According to the Healthier Nation Index report from Nuffield Health (@NuffieldHealth), employees are increasingly demanding support for and employer responsibility towards physical and wellbeing.

The research found:

• Over one fifth (21%) of those surveyed believed employers should undertake mandatory reporting on the physical and wellbeing initiatives they have in place to improve the physical and emotional wellbeing of their staff
• With around half of employees (52%) stating that they were aware of the measures they could take to improve their mental and physical health
• Around one third (37%) went further by stating that employers should take responsibility by making resources available on how to boost mental and physical wellbeing
• Just under half of staff (46%) agreed that free health checks for all staff should be provided by employers
• Over half (54%) of respondents said that their work was having a negative impact on their mental health
• Half (50%) also stating that their workload created a barrier to undertaking physical exercise.

Brendan Street, Professional Head of Emotional Wellbeing at Nuffield Health said:

“Line managers should be equipped to recognise distress in others and be confident in supporting them. Emotional literacy training and mental health awareness training for managers is designed to equip leaders with effective knowledge, tools and skills.  

“Employers should consider the language used regarding mental health in the workplace to ensure that there is a culture where conversations about mental health are seen as welcomed and expected. Nuffield Health has produced a guide for employers to help improve conversations about mental health in the workplace.”

Darren Hockley, Managing Director at DeltaNet International comments: 

“Improving both mental and physical health is rising up the corporate agenda. So, it’s no surprise that around a third of employees want employers to take responsibility and make resources available to boost mental and physical wellbeing. This is what matters. If employees feel overworked or stressed, then they won’t be as happy or productive. This will only lead to other issues for the company, such as sick leave or them resigning and moving to another organisation that prioritises wellbeing.   

“Mandatory reporting on physical and wellbeing initiatives is a great way for organisations to take more responsibility for their employees. Offering that support through wellbeing seminars, mental health and wellbeing training or even mental health support where staff can talk to a specialist can make a significant difference to employees. Let’s prioritise making all employees healthier and happier, both mentally and physically.”