Just one in 10 (12%) employers do not have support mechanisms in place for newly injured or ill employees because they either cannot afford it or they do not feel it is their responsibility, according to research by industry body Group Risk Development (Grid).
Its study of 503 HR decision-makers working for UK organisations also found that despite 82% of employers offering one or more support mechanisms aimed at mitigating absence when a member of staff has an injury, new illness or disability, their utilisation is comparatively low.
The research found that many of these support mechanisms are widely accessible either on a standalone basis or embedded within employee benefits, including group life assurance, group income protection and group critical illness.
Almost two-fifths (18%) offer access to a virtual GP, 15% provide access to an employee assistance programme and 13% offer physiotherapy support for employees.
Fewer than one in 10 (8%) provide access to medical specialists such as oncologists, 10% offer access to a second medical opinion and 12% offer access to practical support such as a rehabilitation specialist.
Katharine Moxham, spokesperson for Grid, said: “The research results paint a picture that many employers could do more to support newly ill staff. Helping staff understand support is available, and ensuring it is utilised during times of need including ill health, not only supports the individuals but also sends a message to the broader staff community who will see their colleagues benefitting.
“Employers should be making more use of the support embedded into employee benefits than they are currently doing, particularly in the event of a new illness or injury, as supporting individuals both physically and emotionally is key at this time. With only a small proportion of organisations deploying these mechanisms, many newly ill staff will be missing out on help.”