Research from global health services company Cigna has revealed workers are in serious need of more employer wellbeing support, with two-thirds claiming they are ‘desperate’ for bosses to find ways to help them cope with life’s challenges.
The survey found that two-thirds (66%) of staff said they felt they were ‘always-on’, while an even greater proportion (74%) admitted they are currently stressed.
Nearly two-thirds (64%) of respondents wanted more wellbeing support from employers, in the form of help with their finances, living conditions and health provision.
Arjan Toor, CEO, Cigna Europe, said: “Our lives are no longer two-dimensional. It’s time for employers to look at the bigger picture and acknowledge that our lives are complex, particularly right now.”
He added: “What might have worked in the past, or on paper, may not work for people’s realities now. Employers need to look at the most important parts of people’s daily lives, not just their physical health. A more holistic approach needs to be taken so employers can understand and support their staff.”
The research also revealed that of those employees feeling stressed, almost half (49%) said it was down to there being such large uncertainty about the future. After this, personal finance issues were the second-largest cause, followed by the near-constant reminder of Covid-19 (Coronavirus) on the news and social media.
Employees said they wanted to see more employer-provided flexible working (from 43% of respondents polled); as well as more financial support to allow for Coronavirus testing (46%). It also found there was demand for enhanced employer-provided healthcare services (from 42% of those polled).
Toor said: “It’s extremely concerning to see so many UK workers struggle with life’s challenges right now, particularly those that are clearly suffering from burnout and workplace stress.”
He added: “Employers need to step up and look at the bigger picture when dealing with employee wellbeing.”