71% of employers want clearer information on workplace rehab support – Aviva

UK employers could boost workforce wellbeing, trust and retention by being transparent about vocational rehabilitation support, research from Aviva found. 

The survey of over 1,200 employees showed 84% knew their company offered some kind of support, but just 38% understood what was actually available.

Additionally, the research found that employers who invest in and clearly explain their support see real business benefits. 

79% of employees said they were more likely to stay with an employer who supported them during recovery. 

36% said they would be more likely to recommend their workplace if support was more visible.

Trust and morale also improved with transparency, with 46% of employees saying it made them more confident in their employer and 44% said it raised morale across the business.

The survey found that 40% would return to work sooner after illness if they better understood the support on offer. 

39% said visible support helped with productivity.

55% said the level of rehabilitation support was an important factor when choosing a job, and 71% said they were more likely to stay with an employer who followed best practice guidelines.

Despite this, 22% either had no support or did not know what was available. 

71% wanted clearer information about what support was on offer.

Jason Ellis, group protection sales director at Aviva, said: “Vocational rehabilitation is crucial for helping employees return to work safely and effectively after a long-term sickness absence. 

“That’s why it’s so important that employees are aware of the support available to them and feel confident in accessing it.

“Aviva’s research highlights a clear opportunity for employers to not only offer meaningful rehabilitation support but to communicate it more effectively.”

Ellis added: “When employees understand the support available to them, they’re more likely to engage with it, return to work sooner, and feel valued by their employer. 

“Implementing best practice and making support more visible isn’t just good for people—it’s good for business.”