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Most employers unprepared for overseas assignment risks, research finds

Towergate Employee Benefits found that only 32% of UK employers said staff relocating abroad were fully prepared for changes in climate. 

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Most employers unprepared for overseas assignment risks, research finds
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Employers are not prepared for the risks involved in sending staff overseas, according to findings from Towergate Employee Benefits. 

The research found 79% of UK companies had already relocated employees abroad.

Sarah Dennis, head of international at Towergate Employee Benefits, said: “When employers fail to plan ahead and take expert advice, they put at risk the success of the assignment itself and the wellbeing of employees being sent overseas. 

“Becoming au fait with the issues in each area is fundamental to providing the best possible support.”

Towergate Employee Benefits pointed to several areas where employers were falling short. 

The organisation said civil unrest is unpredictable, and firms should stay up to date with the political climate and get specialist advice. 

The Foreign Commonwealth and Development Office offers guidance on safe travel, and employers were urged to have evacuation plans in place.

Natural disasters were another risk. 

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Only 32% of UK employers said staff relocating abroad were fully prepared for changes in climate. 

The company said arrangements for emergencies should be made so workers know what to do if needed.

Personal security, especially for lone travellers, was also raised. 

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The group recommended destination awareness training and, in some cases, hostile environment awareness training. 

Employers were expected to understand and manage local risks.

Cultural differences were a problem for many, with only 39% of employers saying staff were ready for changes in culture. 

The organisation said training and mentoring before travel could help. 

Not knowing local customs could lead to isolation and mental health issues, with examples like tipping in Japan or clearing a plate in China given.

Health and wellbeing support was also highlighted. 

57% of UK companies said they give overseas staff the same support as those in the UK, but the company said this may not be enough as access to medicine or care can be different.

 Employers were advised to consider dependants too, such as children with asthma being sent to high-pollution areas.

Dennis added: “The basis of a safe and successful overseas assignment is to do the homework first – know before you go, take expert on-the-ground advice, plan for emergencies, and ensure all of this is carefully communicated so the employee knows exactly how to access support when it is needed.”

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