Thomsons Online Benefits' Global Employee Benefits Watch 2017/18 report, which surveyed more than 2,000 office workers around the world, found that 51% of employees think work has a detrimental impact on their wellbeing.
The research uncovered a misalignment between what employees want and what employers provide; 40% of workers stated that they wanted to improve their mental wellbeing but just 18% thought their employer’s benefits programme supports this.
Luke Prankard, practice lead for health and wellbeing at Thomsons Online Benefits, said wellbeing strategies should look beyond physical health. “Keeping employees fit and healthy is business-critical, but employers need to think beyond this and align their people and benefits strategies to promote holistic employee wellness; addressing employees’ mental, physical and financial health,” he said. “Supporting employees in achieving their life goals will help hit each of these fundamental pillars while providing a fantastic employee experience.”
This report coincides with research from BankingRefunds.co.uk, which found that more than a third (36%) of British workers felt happier in the workplace when receiving perks.
The survey of 1,500 British people found that private healthcare was the most popular perk on offer, selected by 45% of respondents as a priority. Flexible hours were selected by 41%, and 37% would appreciate finishing early on a Friday.
Carl Millar, managing director at BankingRefunds.co.uk, explained how perks help to build a “culture of mutual appreciation".
"We started by looking at the response to packaged bank accounts [bank accounts that come with extra benefits], and how the nation feels about paying for benefits,” he said. “Following this, we thought it would be interesting to delve deeper into this topic and look at how perks and benefits may be used in the workplace. We discovered that when employers show they are invested in employees’ welfare and happiness they can create a culture of mutual appreciation; cultivating a workplace where everyone strives to achieve the best results possible."
