Employers have seen an increase in staff productivity and motivation, and a reduction in sickness absence following the introduction of health-related benefits, according to research by Aviva.
Its Health of the workplace 2012 report found that 89% of respondents reported increased staff productivity, increased motivation (88%), reduced sickness absence (83%) and improved staff wellbeing (86%) after the introduction of health-related benefits in 2012.
This year, 13% of respondents said they had introduced a new health benefit. The most popular options to introduce were counselling services, discounted gym memberships, bikes-for-work schemes and private medical insurance.
The report also found:
- 49% of respondents said improving productivity in the business is the top priority for 2013.
- 32% said improving staff motivation and morale is the top priority.
- 21% of respondents said improving wellbeing is a top priority for 2013, while reducing sickness absence is a priority for (20%).
Dr Doug Wright, medical director at Aviva UK Health, said: “We’re already seeing the scale and impact that today’s normal pressurised work environment has on sickness and absence levels among UK workers.
“However, there is now growing evidence that employers that offer initiatives to keep staff healthy are seeing the benefits of doing so, with improved productivity, lower sickness absence and a happier, more motivated workforce.”