Nearly one-third (28%) of UK workers have asked for greater workplace mental health and wellbeing support from employers to combat isolation and low motivation, according to research by recruitment agency Aspire.
The agency, which spoke to 900 candidates for its latest Workplace trends survey, found that flexibility and remote working were ranked as the third most important factor when searching for a new job.
It also discovered that the shift to remote working during the pandemic has continued, with some organisations operating remote-only policies and others hybrid models that include both remote and in-office working, while several have abandoned permanent office space altogether.
One-third reported low motivation at work as a result, feeling unmotivated (14%) or not very motivated (19%). Employees said they want their employer to offer dedicated mental health and wellbeing support to improve this, with one-quarter (25%) asking for more team social events with colleagues in a bid to improve morale, integration and team dynamics.
Terry Payne, global managing director at Aspire, said: “Hybrid working has become mainstream, giving workers flexibility and freedom in how and where they work. This approach has delivered benefits for businesses and individuals. But we’re all more aware than ever of the importance of mental health and wellbeing in the workplace and at home. As well as offering proper mental health support through an approved or accredited provider, businesses should be identifying opportunities to bring staff together for work and social events.
“By making support available to staff and building team dynamics employers can reduce feelings of isolation, helping workers to feel more connected, motivated and happy at work. This approach will also go a long way towards attracting staff and will give employers the flexibility to cast their nets wider and source skilled candidates from further afield, overcoming skills shortages.”