How Employers Should Support Wellbeing in the Workplace

In today’s competitive work environment, prioritising employee wellbeing is no longer optional—it’s a necessity. A happy, healthy workforce leads to increased productivity, reduced absenteeism, and improved morale. Whether you are an employee, running your own business, or a manager / senior executive in a larger company, supporting wellbeing in the workplace will be relevant to you.

Are you wondering how employers can truly support wellbeing in the workplace? Perhaps as an employee you are considering if your employer is doing enough.  Or, if you have a senior role, perhaps you would like to explore actions you can encourage within your company to better support your people. Whatever your role, you’ll find this article interesting as we delve into actionable strategies to create a thriving work environment where employees feel valued and supported.

These are some of the approaches that can be taken to ensure supporting wellbeing in the workplace is good for employees and good for business.

1. Foster a Positive Work Culture

A positive workplace culture is the foundation of employee wellbeing. When employees feel respected and valued, they are more likely to be engaged and motivated. Employers can foster this environment by:

● Encouraging open communication and feedback.
● Recognising and celebrating achievements.
● Promoting inclusivity and diversity at all levels.

By cultivating a culture of respect and appreciation, employers can make employees feel more connected to their roles and the organisation as a whole.

2. Prioritise Mental Health Support

Mental health is a significant aspect of overall wellbeing, yet it is often overlooked in workplace strategies. Employers should take proactive steps to ensure their team members have access to the support they need. This can include:

● Providing access to mental health resources such as counselling or therapy.
● Offering mental health awareness training for managers.
● Creating a stigma-free environment where employees feel comfortable discussing mental health concerns.

Having dedicated mental health days or flexible leave policies can also empower employees to manage their wellbeing more effectively.

3. Encourage Work-Life Balance

Striking the right balance between work and personal life is essential for employee wellbeing. When employees feel overworked or unable to disconnect from their responsibilities, it can lead to burnout. Employers can promote work-life balance by:

● Offering flexible working arrangements, such as remote work or adjustable hours.
● Encouraging employees to take their full holiday entitlement.
● Setting clear boundaries to ensure work doesn’t encroach on personal time.

These measures help employees recharge and maintain a healthier balance, ultimately boosting productivity and job satisfaction.

Working from home options are welcomed by many employees, enabling them to be more flexible with their working hours to fit their domestic commitments such as child-care. However, WFH can bring its own challenging, particularly:

● The boundaries between work and personal life can become blurred. Switching off from ‘work mode’ can become challenging, leading to working longer hours.
● Without the social interaction common in the workplace, individuals can feel lonely and isolated.
● Employees may not have the right working environment or equipment. Working from the kitchen table with erratic WIFI is certainly not ideal!

4. Offer an Employee Discounts Platform

Financial wellbeing plays a crucial role in an employee’s overall sense of security and satisfaction. One way to address this is by providing access to an employee discounts platform.

Platforms such as Pluxee UK offer discounts on everyday expenses, travel, and even luxury items, enabling employees to make their money go further. Not only do these platforms contribute to financial wellbeing, but they also enhance employees’ perceptions of their employer. Feeling cared for in this way can improve loyalty and motivation.

5. Promote Physical Health and Fitness

Encouraging employees to take care of their physical health can have long-term benefits, including improved focus, reduced absenteeism, and higher energy levels. Employers can support physical wellbeing through:

● Subsidised gym memberships or on-site fitness facilities.
● Organising group fitness challenges or wellness programmes.
● Offering ergonomic equipment and promoting regular breaks to combat sedentary behaviour.

Small initiatives, like encouraging walking meetings or providing healthy snacks in the office, can also make a big difference in promoting a healthier lifestyle.

6. Provide Learning and Development Opportunities

Investing in employee development is a powerful way to boost wellbeing. When employees feel that they are growing and achieving their goals, it contributes to their overall sense of purpose and satisfaction. Employers can facilitate this by:

● Offering training programmes and professional development courses.
● Providing access to online learning platforms.
● Supporting career progression through mentorship schemes.
● Supporting personal development options that may not relate directly to the employment.

By helping employees advance their careers, organisations show that they are committed to their long-term success.

7. Regularly Evaluate Employee Wellbeing

Understanding employee needs is key to implementing effective wellbeing initiatives. Employers should regularly assess their workforce’s wellbeing through:

● Anonymous surveys to gather honest feedback.
● One-on-one meetings to discuss individual needs.
● Focus groups to explore potential areas of improvement.

By listening to employees and taking actionable steps based on their feedback, organisations can ensure that wellbeing initiatives remain relevant and impactful.

It is a legal duty for employers to consider the wellbeing of their people. However, supporting wellbeing in the workplace should be so much more than meeting legislative requirements.

8. Encourage Social Connections

Human connection is vital to wellbeing, yet the workplace can sometimes feel isolating. Employers should create opportunities for employees to interact and bond, such as:

● Hosting team-building activities and events.
● Creating informal spaces for socialising in the office.
● Encouraging cross-departmental collaboration.

When employees feel a sense of belonging, it fosters a supportive and engaging work environment.

Engagement and motivation can often be enhanced by inviting employees to get involved in campaigns that involve supporting the local community such as fundraising, volunteering or mentoring young people.

Similarly, many people are passionate about protecting the environment. You may well have budding environmental champions in the workplace that can support the company in reducing carbon impacts, reducing waste, recycling properly, and even supporting biodiversity

9. Tailor Benefits to Employee Needs

Every workforce is unique, and a one-size-fits-all approach may not always be effective. Employers should consider offering customised benefits that cater to the diverse needs of their team, such as:

● Comprehensive health insurance plans.
● Childcare support for working parents.
● Access to financial advice or retirement planning resources.

Tailored benefits demonstrate that the organisation is attuned to the individual challenges employees face.

10. Lead by Example

Leadership plays a crucial role in shaping workplace wellbeing. When managers and executives model healthy behaviours—such as taking regular breaks, prioritising their mental health, and showing empathy—it sets a positive example for the entire team.

Leaders who actively champion wellbeing initiatives inspire employees to embrace them as well.

Similarly, business executives are increasingly aware of the benefits of being prepared to share their own vulnerabilities. The macho approach to leadership is no longer fit for purpose!

The Bottom Line

Supporting wellbeing in the workplace is not just about implementing policies; it’s about fostering an environment where employees feel empowered to thrive. From promoting mental health support to offering financial perks like an employee discounts platform, employers have a range of tools at their disposal to create a workplace that prioritises wellbeing.

Ultimately, organisations that invest in their employees’ health and happiness will reap the rewards of a more engaged, productive, and loyal workforce. By taking proactive steps today, employers can lay the groundwork for a brighter, healthier tomorrow.