Employee well-being is crucial, yet many in the UK feel unsupported at work.
- Only 55% believe their workplace prioritises their well-being, highlighting a need for improvement.
- Stress, notably among frontline managers, is a significant issue, affecting overall well-being.
- Nearly half of UK employees lack motivation for work, impacting retention strategies.
- Employees demand better work-life balance, management, and financial stability for improved well-being.
Employee well-being is increasingly being recognised as a critical factor for workplace success in the UK. With only 55% of employees feeling adequately supported by their organisations, there is a clear need for improvement. Employers need to focus on improving conditions that allow employees to thrive, addressing gaps that currently exist in their approaches.
The prevalence of stress at work is a major concern, with over half of UK employees reporting excessive stress levels. Frontline managers, in particular, face the brunt of this pressure, with only 37% indicating that their job demands do not cause excessive stress. The persistent stress significantly hampers their well-being and, by extension, the organisation’s overall productivity.
A substantial portion, representing 36% of employees, frequently contemplate leaving their current employment. This statistic becomes more concerning when linked to the 45% of employees who express a lack of enthusiasm for their work tasks. Focusing on well-being is crucial for employers aiming to enhance employee retention and job satisfaction.
Research indicates that traditional perks and wellness programmes may not adequately address the holistic needs of employees. Findings from analysis of employee feedback point to a desire for genuine work-life balance, improved people management, and enhanced financial security. As such, employers must re-evaluate their strategies to align with these expectations.
Sara Silvonen from Great Place To Work UK emphasises that employee well-being is more than just a collection of attractive perks. She argues that the foundation of strong workplace culture is trust and engagement, facilitated by carefully designed jobs and supportive work environments. Organisations that commit to building such cultures are likely to see improved productivity and employee loyalty.
To maintain a productive and committed workforce, UK employers must adapt their strategies to better support employee well-being.
