Jessica O'ConnorAs Mental Health Awareness Week gets underway, organisations are being urged to make employee wellbeing a central component of their workplace benefits strategy.
Research from consultancy firm Isio highlighted shifting employee priorities, with 70% of workers placing high value on hybrid working and 43% prioritising access to private medical cover.
The findings suggested a growing expectation for benefits that address both mental and physical health.
Mark Jones, employee benefits partner at Isio, said: “Mental Health Awareness Week serves as a reminder that employee wellbeing should be at the heart of how organisations shape their benefits strategy.
“As many employers reintroduce return-to-office policies, building trust through flexible, inclusive and clearly communicated support has never been more important.”
Jones added that organisations offering tailored, holistic benefit packages are seeing increased employee engagement, loyalty and productivity.
He said: “Employers that respond to these needs with tailored, holistic packages not only demonstrate they value their people, but also see stronger engagement, loyalty, and productivity as a result.
“Wellbeing isn’t just a standalone initiative – it’s a fundamental part of a modern, effective benefits offering.”
The call for action comes as businesses nationwide mark Mental Health Awareness Week, which runs from 13th to 19th May and aims to raise awareness and support for mental health in the workplace and beyond.
