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RedArc support helps one in five employees with long-term illness stay in work

The findings relate to individuals supported during 2025 through employer-provided or insurer-backed services, all of whom were living with complex and significant health conditions.

RedArc support helps one in five employees with long-term illness stay in work
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One in five employees with long-term health conditions who received support from RedArc were able to remain in or return to work, according to new data from the organisation’s annual patient survey.

The findings relate to individuals supported during 2025 through employer-provided or insurer-backed services, all of whom were living with complex and significant health conditions.

RedArc said the results highlight the role of practical and emotional support in helping individuals maintain employment, even where long-term illness is involved.

The data comes as long-term sickness remains a leading cause of economic inactivity.

According to the Keep Britain Working report, around 2.8 million working-age people are currently out of work due to health conditions, with an estimated annual cost of £85bn to employers.

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The survey also found that employees receiving support reported wider wellbeing benefits.

Around 51% said their confidence improved, while 26% reported a greater ability to engage in everyday activities.

The organisation said these outcomes are closely linked to an individual’s ability to return to normal routines, including work.

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Christine Husbands, commercial consultant at RedArc, said: “Businesses of all types and sizes are undoubtedly operating under tight margins at present, which makes reducing avoidable costs more important than ever.

“Many health and protection benefits include access to practical and emotional support via added value services at no extra charge, and by making full use of this support, organisations can make a real difference to the costs associated with long-term sickness.”

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The research also highlighted the importance of clinical case management in supporting individuals with long-term conditions.

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This can include helping employees understand treatment options, access second medical opinions, and connect with external support such as charities or counselling services.

Around 71% of those who accessed RedArc support via an insurance policy said they valued being made aware of the full range of support available, including services provided by the NHS and community organisations.

Husbands added: “When businesses are selecting employee benefits, and when insurers and advisers are making recommendations, it is essential to ensure that access to practical and emotional clinical support is included.

“It is frequently embedded within health and protection policies, and the evidence demonstrates that it delivers meaningful outcomes. Where this support is not included, policies risk falling short of their full potential value to both employers and employees.”

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