More than one-third (37%) of international employers admitted that they do not offer enough health and wellbeing benefits for employees based outside of the UK, according to new research by Towergate Employee Benefits.
In its latest research, the specialist health and wellbeing advice and solutions firm found that not offering enough health and wellbeing support has an impact on employers’ ability to recruit and retain staff.
Two-fifths (40%) of respondents with employees abroad said that health and wellbeing support boosts productivity, 39% stated that it increases engagement and 37% believe that offering it is the right thing to do. Furthermore, just under four in 10 (38%) said it strengthens loyalty, 39% stated that it boosts retention and 34% believe it supports recruitment.
The research highlighted that health and wellbeing support for overseas employees must be fit for purpose and should offer enhanced over typical offerings in the UK, including dental support as standard, maternity care, evacuation and repatriation, and everyday care in the absence of a national health service.
Sarah Dennis, head of international for Towergate Employee Benefits, said: “It could be seen as a positive that overseas employers at least recognise that their lack of health and wellbeing support is negatively influencing the recruitment and retention of talent, however the big step now is for them to do something about it.
“To really get the most value out of health and wellbeing support, especially for recruitment and retention, employers must really make a noise about what they offer. Attracting and keeping overseas employees is particularly competitive and they are at risk of leaving if better benefits are offered elsewhere. International employers are urged to take a look at the health and wellbeing support they offer, especially the third who are already aware that it is not doing its job in supporting recruitment and retention.”
