More than half (51%) of respondents said the health and wellbeing benefits offered by their employer improve their overall job satisfaction, according to research by Investors in People.
Its research, which surveyed 3,009 full-time employees, found that the opportunity to work flexible hours (43%) was the top health and wellbeing benefit which makes, or would make, them feel most satisfied in their role.
This was closely followed by health insurance (41%) and dental insurance (23%).
But more than half (54%) of respondents felt their employer does not care about their health and wellbeing, as long as they get the job done.
Of this group, 48% said it has led to them feeling less motivated, with a third stating they have considered looking for a new job as a result.
Eight out of 10 (80%) respondents said they would feel more positive towards their employer if it offered better health and wellbeing benefits.
The research also found:
- One in five respondents have ‘pulled a sickie’ in the past year, while 6% have done so more than five times.
- 46% of respondents have taken at least a day off work in the last year due to a cold, flu or a stomach bug.
- Other reasons for taking a sick day included suffering from a physical injury (21%) and a recurring condition, such as a migraine (20%).
Paul Devoy (pictured), head of Investors in People, said: “Organisations need to see staff health and wellbeing as crucial to their business and staff retention.
“Our research shows that happier staff are less likely to take time off sick. What’s more, organisations that offer health and wellbeing perks will see real business benefits.
“But they don’t have to be costly; desk posture assessment and support or complimentary fresh fruit in the office can have real positive impact on an employee’s health and make them feel valued.
“Investors in People is encouraging employers to consider how they treat their staff to ensure they have the happiest and most productive workforce.”
