Mark Lyttleton is an angel investor and business mentor. In addition to providing business owners with financial and strategic support, Mark Lyttleton also offers personal advice to help them negotiate the many stresses and challenges involved in establishing and growing a business.
This article will look at mental health at work, and why it is so important for companies to take a progressive approach to helping workers to achieve a positive work-life balance, protecting the health and wellbeing of employees. The attached infographic contains some surprising statistics on the impact of mental health problems on the global economy.
UK employers who prioritise and invest in their workers’ mental health and wellbeing are more likely to retain staff for longer, according to a new report from The Executive Development Network. The research, which involved a nationwide consultation with employees and employers across a broad range of industries, revealed that more than 85% of employees agreed that they would be more likely to leave a job where there was no obvious support for employee wellbeing. Furthermore, 83% of employees agreed that, when seeking new opportunities, they would be more attracted to an organisation with a progressive company culture.
The COVID-19 pandemic left an indelible mark on businesses across all industries, heightening focus on corporate social responsibility and the need for companies to take steps to protect the wellbeing of workers. With many businesses continuing to operate remote and hybrid work practices, forward-thinking companies are seeking out innovative new ways to invest in wellbeing and provide tangible support for employees. The attached PDF takes a closer look at trends sparked by COVID-19 in the UK labour market.
Every great HR leader recognises the importance of mental health and wellbeing in the workforce. Indeed, 75% of HR professionals recognise the importance of supporting the mental health and wellbeing of employees as a key focus for 2023, according to a report by WorkNest, with anxiety, depression, and stress all being exacerbated by global events like the current cost-of-living crisis.
Taking steps to protect the mental-ill health of employees and help them manage work-related stress has numerous well documented advantages for businesses, helping to reduce absence levels, improving productivity and performance, and potentially minimising the occurrence of workplace disputes. However, where employers fail to take measures to protect the health and wellbeing of workers, this creates scope for legal claims against the business, including disability discrimination and unfair or constructive dismissal. The attached video outlines what businesses can do to help safeguard the mental health and wellbeing of employees.