Companies that address workplace health and wellbeing attract talent and are more likely to have higher levels of staff retention.
The majority of employees (83%) say employers' attitudes towards health are an important factor when making a decision about a job, according to research commissioned by Business in the Community (BITC).
The Business action on health campaign survey, conducted by YouGov in September revealed that six in ten workers would consider leaving employers that fail to address workplace health and wellbeing.
Stephen Howard, chief executive of BITC, said: "Tough market conditions mean it is more important than ever to retain staff. Whether you work in a SME or a multinational company, no business leader can afford to be complacent about the financial and cultural impact of the churn.
"Our research clearly shows that workplace welfare is an emerging weapon in the battle for talent and although many companies are already taking action on their health and wellbeing record, those that aren't need to take action fast."
BITC has unveiled a series of resources to help business managers create a healthier work place, including the Healthy Workplace Action Pack and Healthy Eating Toolkit, which were developed in conjunction with Towers Perrin. The Towers Perrin Healthy Workplace Action Pack offers a 12-step approach for employers wanting to optimise the health of their employees.