- 62% state that their employer has taken a genuine interest in their wellbeing and mental health
- 55% say working from home has had a positive impact on their mental health
- However, employees are seeking more support from their employers, with 54% wanting wellness days
As the return to the office continues to gather pace, research1 from Canada Life reveals that nearly two thirds (62%) of those still working from home say that their employer has taken a genuine interest in their wellbeing and mental health during the pandemic.
More than six in 10 (63%) employees say working from home has given them a better work-life balance and over half (55%) say it has had a positive impact on their mental health. Working from home has also benefited employees’ physical health, with 47% saying they feel fitter and healthier as a result.
However, the pandemic has raised some concerns among employees around presenteeism and time off. Nearly two fifths (39%) would like to see their employer address the issue of presenteeism, while 47% of employees say they have struggled to take time off and 44% are worried about taking their remaining holiday before the end of the year.
Despite the majority of employees feeling supported by their employer, the findings reveal that employees are seeking further support measures. More than half (54%) of employees would like their employer to introduce wellness days and 46% would like fewer meetings or less time on Zoom. While 43% would like better access to mental health support and 38% would like flexible working hours.
Ian Ranger, Head of medical underwriting and claims at Canada Life, comments: “The last 18 months have affected us all in different ways, whether that be mentally, physically or financially. As more of the UK workforce returns to the office, employers first and foremost must listen to the wants and needs of their employees.
“While for some working from home has given them the ability to see more of their families, for others, it has been a period of loneliness. As such, employers should look for ways to support their employees and demonstrate their commitment to their wellbeing no matter what their situation. This is where support services such as WeCare can play a crucial role. The benefits included not only provide financial peace of mind, but provide access to mental health, virtual GPs and fitness programmes, all of which could make a huge difference to the lives of employees.”
- Source: Opinium research among 2000 UK adults with fieldwork conducted on the 24th – 27th August 2021.