Just 53% of UK workers said that they fully understand the workplace benefits available to them, according to new research by Totaljobs and The Stepstone Group.
Totaljobs analysed 21.6 million UK job positions collected through global digital recruitment platform The Stepstone Group’s job advert analysis tool, covering 2019 to 2025 across 23 industries and 21 major UK cities.
When asked which benefits they are least aware of, respondents identified three key areas. These were wellbeing benefits, such as mental health support, virtual GP services, and discounts on gym memberships; lifestyle benefits, such as discounts, food, travel, and social events; and learning and development, such as training, skills, and career pathways.
Among workers planning to look for a new job in 2026, 27% cited career progression opportunities as a key driver, while 18% were motivated by the prospect of better learning and training opportunities.
A quarter (24%) said they feel dissatisfied with the benefits they receive in their current role. Meanwhile, 28% of employers said candidates frequently drop out because benefits do not meet expectations, and 36% have seen an increase in candidate drop-outs compared to the previous year.
Nearly a quarter (23%) of employers have expanded or introduced new benefits over the past year in a bid to retain and attract talent, while 39% feel confident employees clearly understand the benefits available to them.
Luke Mckend, managing director at Stepstone Group, said: “Salary will always matter, but in today’s labour market, benefits can often be the deciding factor. With ongoing cost-of-living pressures and candidates thinking more carefully about what they need from an employer, people are looking beyond pay alone and assessing the full package on offer. Whether it’s access to mental health support, bikes-for-work schemes or meaningful learning and development opportunities, these perks can have a real impact on both financial wellbeing and long-term career prospects.
“At a time when businesses are facing skills shortages and increased competition for talent, employers can’t afford to keep their best perks quiet. Clearly communicating the value of their benefits could be what attracts a candidate to apply, or what convinces a valued employee to stay.”
