Marvin OnumonuThe latest research from GRiD showed 70% of employers are concerned about the lack of state support for health and wellbeing, up from 63% last year.
Employers pointed to the impact on their staff, especially around mental health, with 43% saying this is where the shortfall is felt most.
Other concerns included limited financial support if staff are unable to work due to sickness or injury (39%), lack of access to preventative care (38%) and support for physical health (35%).
Nearly a third of employees said pressure on the NHS means they are now more reliant on their employer for mental health support, including counselling.
Katharine Moxham, spokesperson for GRiD, said: “Constraints on public sector funding have not eased over the past 12 months, and this is reflected in the growing number of employers who are concerned about the level of state support available for their people, and the impact it has on them.
“As a result, many employers will feel the impact as more employees are affected.
“With the Government facing significant budgetary challenges, employers increasingly carry greater responsibility for supporting their people.”
Moxham added: “In light of this, health and wellbeing benefits need to deliver more value than ever.
“Employers that use benefits to bridge gaps in state provision are more likely to maintain a healthier workforce, minimise absence and sustain productivity.
“How organisations respond to the lack of state support is within their control.”
She said: “By offering the right support, employers can influence how quickly people access help, and this can directly influence how quickly they return to work.
“This is not just about businesses doing the right thing by their people, but also about safeguarding the long-term resilience of their organisation.”
