23 per cent feel effects of lost productivity

Almost a quarter (23%) of respondents believe workplace productivity is an issue for their organisation, according to research by industry body Group Risk Development (Grid).

Katherine Moxham

Its Group risk employer research study, which surveyed 501 employers, also found that almost a third (29%) of respondents offer their staff flexible working options in a bid to improve productivity.

The research also found:

  • 22% of respondents encourage their workforce to be more active.
  • 18% encourage staff to improve their health.
  • Just 6% of respondents have invested in fitness technology within their organisation.

Katharine Moxham (pictured), spokesperson for Grid, said: “It’s clear from these results that employers are starting to recognise the importance of acting to combat losses and are implementing a range of measures, which in itself is encouraging, but central to improvement is staff wellbeing.

“Ill health, stress and, therefore, absence can still strike. When they do, they have a significant impact over the long term, so there is clearly more to be done to prevent this from becoming a continuous drain on the business.

“Group income protection products may seem like an extra step to take, but they are hugely effective in keeping people in the workplace and giving them the support they need. At the end of the day, a business grows on the people behind the ideas and their delivery, so investing the time and effort in ensuring staff retention, support and motivation is kept up is key.”