A quarter (25%) of respondents think that financial rewards impact their wellbeing in the workplace, according to wellbeing charity for chartered accountants CABA.
Its survey of 2,000 UK employees also found that 22% of respondents believe working hours affect their workplace wellbeing, while 15% cite organisational culture as a factor which influences wellbeing at work. A further 10% feel good managers impact their workplace wellbeing, compared to 6% who think their personal development at work affects their wellbeing.
Laura Little (pictured), learning and development manager at CABA, said: “Our research identified that struggling with poor wellbeing is not a small issue; it’s having a hugely negative impact on a large number of employees, both at work and home. Almost half (42%) of respondents said that as a result of poor wellbeing, they have needed to take more sick days, [while] 58% have experienced reduced mental wellbeing and 54% have had more conflicts with their colleagues.”
In order to improve both their physical and mental wellbeing at work, 39% of respondents would like their employer to introduce free healthy snacks and breakfasts, while 25% would like access to free gym-style exercise classes. A quarter (25%) want their employer to implement free mobility classes to help improve their physical and mental workplace wellbeing, and a further 25% would value regular access to a massage.
“It’s imperative that we start taking people’s wellbeing seriously, otherwise it will be the business that pays the price,” added Little. “Having a strategy for employee wellbeing is no longer an optional extra; people not only need it more than ever before but they also expect it. Loyalty is a thing of the past, so employers need to make sure they’re doing everything they can do to attract and retain the best talent.”
Nearly three-quarters (74%) of respondents find that their ability to concentrate is negatively affected by poor wellbeing, with 13% taking time off sick in order to cope with stress. In addition, 9% of respondents state that not being paid enough is their top complaint about work, versus another 9% of employees who feel they experience a lack of development in their current role.
Little said: “Asking employees to provide feedback about what their [organisation] could do better not only makes them feel valued but could also provide important insight into how to get the best out of team members. Simple steps such as encouraging exercise can help to boost productivity and increase mental focus, making for a happier workforce. Investing in improving people’s wellbeing at work will be a welcome effort, likely to be rewarding for employees and employers alike.”