Employers are spending, on average, 9% more on healthcare this year but despite increased costs remain committed to employee wellbeing.

According to Aon Consulting, 29% of employers are planning to redesign their package this year.

The most popular new health benefits employers are considering are dental care (39%), health screening (37%), employee assistance plans (26%), occupational health (16%) and health cash plans (16%).

Alex Bennett, head of health consulting at Aon Consulting, said: "Over the past few years there has been a strong emphasis on CSR, and the importance of promoting wellness in a corporate environment is just as vital during the current economic climate, where the implications of excess employee stress can quickly become a major business expense if not managed appropriately.  

"So although it is pleasing to see increased provision of preventative benefits, it is concerning that 49% of organisations still do not offer basic employee support through an EAP, which can cost as little as £10 per person, and can greatly support employees by providing services such as debt counselling and stress management.

"While increasing the spend on the prevention of illness or injury at work makes clear financial sense, in good times or bad, this only holds true if benefit overlaps are eliminated, services are integrated and benefits are redesigned specifically to align with the needs of the business. Only then will overall employee health costs be at their most cost-effective."

The research also shows employers are investing in healthcare to provide a competitive benefits package (67%), for corporate responsibility purposes (56%) and to lower staff absence (53%).