Five tips for improving workplace wellbeing – How can you as an employer help?

Research from Mental Health First Aid England has revealed that during the past year 48% of workers did not receive a wellbeing check-in from their employer.

In light of this, it’s important to consider whether you could be doing more to support your employees.

Our partners and HR specialists, AHR Consultants, have outlined five tips for improving wellbeing in the workplace, which should help you to reflect on your approach and identify areas for change.

1) Provide regular training opportunities

Consistent access to training, ideally through a training plan, will ensure that your employees feel valued in their roles. By encouraging the development of skills and confidence, your employees are more likely to be motivated to perform.

Training on mental health awareness is also a great way to start wellbeing conversations in the workplace, ensuring that everyone feels comfortable enough to express their feelings.

2) Create a positive culture – boost workplace wellbeing

To create a positive culture, it is essential that you have a robust reward and recognition programme in place.

Many UK workers have a common complaint about managers who always pick up on things that go wrong, and never recognise when things go right. This creates a very negative atmosphere and breeds a feeling of hopelessness and that their contribution to your organisation is not appreciated.

Simply recognising and celebrating success on a regular basis, no matter how publicly, can create a more positive culture. Your people will feel recognised and rewarded for their contribution, meaning they are more likely to give you the added value performance that you need to achieve your aims.

3) Practice open communication

Although it may seem basic, open communication is extremely powerful in the workplace.

By having clear and consistent lines of communication across organisational levels, employers can promote inclusion, accountability, and direction.

It is essential that you engage with your employees on matters relevant to their job, especially when considering change. This ensures that everyone can prepare mentally and feel a sense of involvement in the process.

4) Offer hybrid working

If you operate in an industry where hybrid working is possible, it is recommended that you consider offering it to your employees in some form.

With reduced commutes and more time for leisure activities, hybrid workers are likely to enjoy improved wellbeing. It also helps you to establish yourself as an employer of choice.

5) Monitor absence and retention rates

Ensure that potential health and wellbeing issues are recognised by monitoring absence and retention rates in your organisation.

If you have employees that are absent for a long period, it is crucial that you have a clear process in place for offering help, leading ultimately to their return to work when suitable.

Workplace Wellbeing – AHR Consultants can help

We are proud partners of AHR Consultants, who are specialists in supporting businesses with HR, employment law, and safety concerns. If you would like further guidance from their team on the topics covered above, or any other area of HR, contact us today for a referral on 01634 731390 or info@friendandgrant.co.uk.

The content in this blog is correct as at 25 August 2022. See terms and conditions.