More than 90% of manufacturing companies that invested in employee health and wellbeing have seen workforce productivity increase, according to Make UK and Howden Employee Benefits & Wellbeing.
In its new report into the UK's health and safety landscape, Health, Wealth and Wellbeing for Manufacturers, 85% of businesses saw it as a duty to encourage and promote physical and mental wellbeing.
All the manufacturers surveyed said they are investing time and money in health and wellbeing to some extent, with the largest companies spending £30,000 annually.
Supporting employees returning to work after ill health was a large concern.
Three-fifths (61%) said they already offer workplace adjustments and 52% said they provide professional occupational health support. Eighty per cent have offered both voluntary pay and flexible working patterns to staff returning from long-term sick leave.
Tim Thomas, Make UK’s director of labour market and skills policy, said: “There is a clear message from manufacturers that they realise a healthy and happy workforce is an effective one. Employers have also recognised that jobs within their businesses should include career development and flexible working pathways in order that they retain staff. And in doing so there is now clear evidence that productivity will improve as a result.”
Mark Fosh, divisional director of Howden Employee Benefits & Wellbeing, said the report confirmed a growing trend towards wellness in the workplace.
“Coupled with a more general workplace wellness trend, manufacturers are investing in their health and wellbeing agendas in a bid to build and maintain a healthy workforce and reduce absenteeism. This is clearly sending positive ripples across the sector.
"Manufacturers should now look to optimise the investments they are already making through seeking practical guidance on how best to manage their health and wellbeing strategies,” he added.
