In the latest blog for Business Surrey, Surrey County Councilโs Public Health Lead Tessa Axelrod explains why focusing on the wellbeing of your workforce could be a simple way to boost your business in 2025.
In todayโs fast paced and ever evolving work environment itโs easy to focus on little but the bottom line. However, there is one thing that is often overlooked but essential to driving productivity and growth: workforce wellbeing.
Poor mental wellbeing costs employers in the UK an estimated ยฃ42 billion to ยฃ45 billion a year.
So, investing in wellbeing isnโt just a nice to have, itโs crucial for a thriving business.
The good news is that businesses in Surrey can get free expert bespoke advice via the new โHow Are You?โ programme.
Not convinced? Well, read our business blog on workforce wellbeing to discover six benefits for your business and the wider Surrey economy when you look after the wellbeing of your workforce.
1. Improves Productivity and Performance
In 2022/23, an estimated 875,000 employees suffered from work-related stress, depression or anxiety, resulting in 17.1 million working days lost.
So, it makes business sense to nurture a well-supported workforce.
When employees feel mentally and physically healthy and know how to manage stress, they will be more energised, focused and more productive.
2. Reduces sick days
When employees feel well cared for and are supported, theyโre less likely to be absent from work for extended periods. So, taking steps to improve the mental and physical health of employees is good for business.
Workplace wellbeing programs that emphasise mental and physical health can significantly reduce illness, stress, or burnout.
These preventative measures can also have a long-term impact โ as healthy employees are less prone to chronic diseases and other health issues.
And itโs good for the bottom line too โ as The National Institute of Clinical Excellence estimates that implementing interventions to promote staff wellbeing could save employers up to ยฃ5,020 per employee.
3. Fosters Positive Workplace Culture
Workplace culture plays a crucial role in shaping an organisationโs overall success โ and employee wellbeing is key to that, creating a more positive, inclusive, and supportive environment.
When done well, employees feel more connected to their colleagues and leaders, which boosts morale and strengthens team dynamics
And this sense of community fosters collaboration, trust, respect and loyalty โ which are all essential ingredients to building a great team and a great business.
4. Enhances Creativity and Innovation
When employees are mentally and physically well, theyโre in a better position to think creatively and innovate.
Stress and burnout can stifle creative thinking, while a healthy and balanced workforce tends to be more open-minded, resourceful, and capable of generating fresh ideas.
Wellbeing programmes that support work-life balance, provide opportunities for personal growth, and encourage creative expression can help employees stay energised and motivated to think outside the box.
Innovation thrives when individuals feel supported and empowered, which is why a focus on wellbeing is an essential component of fostering a culture of creativity.
5. Attracts and Retains Top Talent
In a competitive job market, offering a comprehensive wellbeing programme can set an organisation apart from others. Todayโs workers increasingly prioritise work-life balance, mental health support, and overall wellness when considering potential employers.
Organisations that prioritise workforce wellbeing are signalling to prospective employees that they care about their holistic needs, which makes them a more attractive place to work.
In addition, focusing on employee wellbeing helps retain top talent. Employees who feel valued and supported in their health and wellbeing are less likely to leave, reducing turnover rates and the associated costs of recruitment and training.
6. Builds a Sustainable Future
A healthy, happy workforce contributes to the long-term stability, profitability, and growth of a successful organisation. When employees feel supported, they are more likely to invest their time, energy, and talents into the companyโs success, resulting in a more resilient and adaptive organisation.
Organisations that recognise the importance of employee wellbeing and integrate it into their corporate strategy are more likely to enjoy long-term success, even in times of economic uncertainty or change. Well-supported employees are adaptable, loyal, and dedicated to overcoming challenges and achieving long-term goals.
Want to learn more about workforce wellbeing?
Our business blog on workforce wellbeing is just the start.
If youโre a business in Surrey then you can apply to get immediate support to focus on wellbeing in the workplace.
โHow Are You?โ is a fully funded programme to support employers which is delivered by Surrey County Council.
Spaces are limited โ so if you’re interested in taking part then get in touch today.
Our team of experts will work with you to develop a simple approach that works for you and your business. We can support those with 10 or more employees whatever yourย sector.
- Visit our dedicated โHow Are Youโ website to download an intro to the free Workforce Wellbeing Framework.
- Email workforce.wellbeing@surreycc.gov.uk with the subject line “How Are You support”
- Looking for further support? Use the Contact Us form on the Business Surrey website.
