1 million people in the UK each year find themselves unable to work due to illness and injury (source: Money Advice Service).
Prevention is obviously better than cure but many employees neglect their health due to a lack of:
• Self-Awareness
• Time
• Access to help
• Affordability
This can result in higher absenteeism, or indeed presenteeism both of which lead to a lack of productivity placing increased strain on the business impacting both owners and colleagues.
For HR professionals a greater amount of time spent on managing these issues to the detriment of other function areas. For employees, any health concern for themselves or their families will result in a loss of focus and mental wellbeing.
From encouraging physical activity to arranging preventative screenings and prompt access to medical treatment and services, a suitably structured, easily implemented, regularly reviewed benefits programme will create a culture of good corporate health allowing greater focus for all on the principle business.