A significant expectation gap in mental health support exists between employers and employees, as highlighted by recent findings.
- Research by Benenden Health reveals a disparity between what employers claim to offer and what employees perceive they receive.
- Only 15% of employees report being asked about their mental health needs, despite 54% of employers claiming otherwise.
- There is a lack of awareness about available mental health resources, with many employees unaware of the services employers say they provide.
- Improved communication strategies are essential to bridge this gap, ensuring employees are informed and supported.
The recent study conducted by Benenden Health shines a light on a considerable mental health expectation gap between employers and their employees within the UK. According to the findings, there is a broad discrepancy between what employers believe they are offering in terms of mental health provisions and what employees report experiencing. Specifically, while 54% of employers assert that they have inquired about their employees’ mental health needs, a mere 15% of employees confirm having been asked this key question. This stark contrast underscores a critical lapse in communication and understanding between the two parties.
In addition to the mismatch in perceived support inquiries, the research brings to light the specific types of mental health services that employees find most beneficial. Approximately 45% of employees highlighted counselling services as their preferred form of support. This preference was closely followed by mental health leave, which 40% of employees valued, and workload reviews, chosen by 32% of participants. These figures suggest that employees have clear preferences regarding mental health support, yet there is a significant gap in how these needs align with the services that employers indicate they provide.
The issue of misaligned mental health support is further exemplified by the disparity in awareness about these services. For instance, while 47% of employers claim to offer regular workload reviews, only 14% of employees report receiving such support, indicating a 33% awareness gap. Similarly, about 44% of employers state they provide mental health sick leave, yet this is corroborated by only 19% of employees. This data reveals a broad disconnect in communication, leaving a majority of employees unaware of the resources that might be available to them.
Benenden Health’s Director of People Services, Rebecca Mian, underscores the importance of closing this communication gap to ensure employees understand the support available to them. Mian notes, “It is reassuring to see that employers are prioritising mental health for their workforce, just as much as physical health support. However, there’s still work to be done to improve the communication gap, so employees know exactly what support they have at their disposal when the need arises.” She suggests using regular confidential surveys and open dialogue during reviews and meetings as effective strategies for fostering an inclusive communication environment.
Furthermore, Jemma Williamson, Corporate Mental Health Practitioner at Vita Health Group, emphasises the necessity of embedding mental health priorities within organisational culture. She comments that fostering an open environment, providing essential resources, and integrating mental health into the company’s core values can significantly enhance both individual wellbeing and overall workplace resilience. This strategy not only supports employees’ mental health needs but also contributes to a healthier, more productive workplace.
Bridging the mental health expectation gap demands proactive communication strategies and a cultural shift within organisations.
