Best Workplace Wellness Programmes

In today’s fast paced working environment, employee wellbeing has become a key priority for organisations aiming to create a healthy, productive and engaged workforce. Workplace wellness programmes are no longer seen as optional perks but as essential initiatives that support individuals in managing their mental, emotional and physical health. Among the many options available, Health Assured’s Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) stands out as the comprehensive solution, designed to enable employees to take charge of their wellbeing.

Health Assured’s EAP provides a wide range of services including confidential counselling, practical advice and a dedicated app providing access to a bank of online resources, to help individuals navigate challenges both in and out of the workplace. By addressing the diverse needs of individuals, from mental health support to guidance on financial and legal matters. The EAP not only enhances personal wellbeing but builds resilience and balance in the workplace.

Why is employee wellbeing important?

Employee wellbeing is the cornerstone of a thriving workplace. When individuals feel supported and valued, they are more likely to perform at their best, maintain positive relationships and contribute meaningfully to the organisation’s goals. Workplace initiatives such as on-site fitness facilities, flexible working and access to mental health and wellbeing resources can enhance concentration, reduce presenteeism (working while ill) and improve overall job performance.

People who experience stress, burnout or health issues are more likely to take sick leave or leave an organisation altogether. By implementing comprehensive wellbeing programmes, an organisation can reduce absenteeism rates, reduce employee turnover, which can be costly in terms of recruitment and training.

When individuals feel that their wellbeing is valued by their employer, they are more likely to feel a sense of loyalty and commitment to the organisation. This can translate into increased job satisfaction, improved morale and a stronger organisation culture.

What makes a workplace wellness programme effective

A successful workplace wellbeing programme prioritises the needs of individuals. Key factors for effectiveness include:

Leadership commitment

Visible and consistent support from senior management is vital. This translates to allocating resources, promoting wellbeing initiatives and demonstrating a genuine commitment to employee health and happiness.

Employee involvement

Actively involving employees in the design, implementation and evaluation of the programme ensures that initiatives are relevant, accessible and valued.

Comprehensive approach

A holistic programme addresses multiple dimensions of wellbeing, such as physical health, mental health, financial wellbeing and social connection. This ensures a balanced and supportive approach.

Focus on prevention

Effective programmes prioritise preventative measures, such as stress management workshops, healthy lifestyle initiatives and regular health screenings. This helps to identify and address potential issues early on.

Confidentiality and accessibility

Ensuring confidentiality and easy access to support services is paramount. This may involve providing discreet access to resources like Employee Assistance Programmes (EAPs), such as the EAP provided by Health Assured. Health Assured’s EAP is confidential support for a range of issues including mental health, financial difficulties, relationship problems and more.

Regular evaluation and improvement

Continuous monitoring of the effectiveness of the programme through surveys, feedback mechanisms and data analysis allows organisations to identify areas for improvement and adapt initiatives to meet the evolving needs of individuals.

By focusing on these key elements, organisations can create a workplace culture that prioritises wellbeing, leading to increased employee engagement, reduced absenteeism and improve overall productivity.

Top features of a successful wellness programmes 

Health Assured is the leading EAP in the UK and Ireland. Our EAP offers a range of services designed to support the mental, emotional and physical wellbeing of employees. Some of the top features are:

• 24/7 confidential helpline

Employees have access to a 24/7 confidential helpline staffed by qualified counsellors who can provide support and guidance on a range of issues including stress, anxiety, depression, relationship problems and financial difficulties.

• Face-to-face counselling

In addition to phone counselling sessions, we offer face-to-face counselling with a qualified therapist who is located near your employee. This can be particularly beneficials for individuals who prefer a more in-depth and personal approach.

• Legal and financial advice

The EAP also provides access to professionals who can provide legal and financial advice, which can help individuals navigate complex issues such as pensions, investment, wills, divorce and other legal disputes.

• Management support

We provide support to managers on how to best support their team’s mental health and wellbeing. This includes training on topics such as mental health awareness, managing stress and having difficult conversations.

• Dedicated app

Wisdom is Health Assured’s award-winning app, which provides individuals with access to 24/7 support with counsellors via a live chat, packed full of resources from healthy eating, mindfulness and home of the Peace of Mind podcast.

Financial wellness programmes to reduce employee stress

Financial stress is a significant contributor to overall employee stress levels. To mitigate this, organisations can implement financial wellness, this is available with the Health Assured EAP. The EAP provides individuals with access to expert financial advisors who can offer guidance on various financial matters, which includes:

Debt management

Strategies for managing and reducing debt, including budgeting, debt consolidation and negotiating with creditors.

Financial planning

Assistance with creating and achieving financial goals, such as saving for retirement, purchasing a home or planning for another expense.

Investment advice

Guidance on investment options, risk management and retirement planning strategies.

Legal assistance: Access to legal professionals for advice on a range of legal issues including employment law, family law, divorce and wills.

In addition to this, Health Assured has partnered with Munny to offer 1:1 coaching to provide individuals with the financial education that they want and need.

By providing these resources, Health Assured EAP enables individuals to gain control of their finances, reduce financial stress and improve their overall wellbeing. This in turn can lead to increased productivity, reduced absenteeism and improve employee morale within the organisation.

Building a culture of health and wellbeing at work

Cultivating a culture of health and wellbeing within an organisation requires a multifaceted approach. Central to this is providing accessible support mechanisms for employees. One effective strategy is implementing an EAP. By offering these resources to individuals, organisations demonstrate a commitment to the mental and emotional wellbeing of their workforce.

Furthermore, promoting open communication around mental health is vital. Normalising conversations around stress, anxiety, depression and other mental health concerns can reduce the stigma and encourage individuals to seek support when needed. This can be achieved through initiatives such as mental health awareness campaigns, workshops and training sessions for managers, on recognising and addressing mental health issues within their teams.

Building a culture of health and wellbeing is an ongoing process that requires continuous efforts and adaptation. By prioritising employee support, open communication and creating a psychologically safe environment, organisations can significantly enhance the overall wellbeing of their workforce and reap the associated benefits of increased productivity and reduced absenteeism.

Conclusion

Implementing a comprehensive workplace wellness programme is a valuable investment for any organisation. By prioritising the health and wellbeing of individuals, organisations can cultivate a more productive, engaged and satisfied workforce. Programmes that encompass a holistic approach, addressing physical, mental and emotional health are most likely to achieve lasting success.