78% of workers said earning a real Living Wage would improve their physical and mental health, according to research from the Living Wage Foundation.
74% said more than statutory sick pay would improve their physical health, while almost two thirds (64%) said enhanced sick pay and support when returning to work would make them more likely to stay in their job.
Around three quarters said supportive management, flexibility and predictable hours would help their health.
The evidence review linked low income and insecure work to poorer health outcomes.
Workers placed strong value on financial security and stability, including enhanced pension contributions and predictable hours.
Graham Griffiths, director of the Living Wage Foundation, said: “Good work is good for health, and this research shows workers themselves recognise the importance of fair pay and financial security to their wellbeing.
“It’s clear that employers have an important role to play in supporting healthier working lives by offering fair pay, secure work, and flexibility.
“This research also makes the case even stronger for a real Living Wage across the health and social care sector in England.”
Griffiths added: “If we recognise that low pay damages health, it cannot be right that so many people working in care itself are still earning below the real Living Wage.
“Social care workers do vital, skilled and demanding work supporting the health and wellbeing of others every day.
“The sector should be leading the way on fair pay and healthy work, not lagging behind.”
Claire Campbell, senior fellow at the Health Foundation, said: “Work is a major determinant of health, and the quality of work people experience can shape their physical and mental wellbeing throughout their lives.
“These findings point to the importance of factors such as fair pay, security, flexibility and supportive workplace practices in helping people stay healthy and well at work.
“They also reflect the pressures many low-paid workers are facing, particularly in the context of the rising cost of living.”
Campbell added: “Employers have an important role to play in creating healthier working environments.
“Supporting good work is important for workers themselves but also for wider public health.”
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