The UK is facing a hidden crisis – employee sickness is costing the economy a staggering £103 billion a year, according to a new report by the Institute for Public Policy Research (IPPR). This is a significant increase of £30 billion since 2018, raising concerns about the well-being of the workforce and the overall health of the economy.
Presenteeism: The Hidden Culprit
While the number of sick days taken has increased slightly, the report highlights a worrying trend – presenteeism. This refers to employees coming to work while unwell, leading to reduced productivity and a higher risk of spreading illness.
Fiona Scott, Wellness Counsellor at Edelweiss Consultancy, emphasises the dangers of presenteeism, stating, "Employees who push through physical or mental illness not only risk their own health but also put colleagues and potentially the public at risk. Increased stress and fatigue can lead to costly mistakes and accidents. The report attributes the rise in sickness costs to escalating long-term health issues and a workforce facing extreme pressure. This pressure can lead to burnout, a state of emotional, physical, and mental exhaustion caused by prolonged or excessive stress."
Building a Healthier Workplace
The good news is that there are steps businesses can take to address this issue. Kris Ambler, Workforce Lead at BACP, recommends offering timely access to counselling services. "Mental health support can help employees manage stress effectively and create a more positive work environment," he says.
However, Ambler acknowledges that mental health support is just one piece of the puzzle. Businesses also need to address factors like workload, pay, and workplace safety to truly create a healthy and productive environment.
A Call for Action
The IPPR report proposes several measures to incentivise businesses to invest in employee well-being, including tax breaks for companies that improve work-life balance and financial security for their workforce. Additionally, the report calls for a "do no harm" obligation for employers to ensure they are not contributing to employee health issues. Finally, the report proposes mandatory reporting of employee health data to track progress and encourage investment in preventative measures.
Investing in a Healthier Future
Prioritising employee well-being isn't just about employee satisfaction; it's a sound economic investment. As Kieron Boyle OBE, IPPR Commissioner, states, "Businesses are increasingly recognising that a healthy workforce is a productive workforce." By creating a culture of well-being, businesses can not only improve employee morale but also boost productivity and contribute to a healthier and more prosperous economy for everyone.
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