Beyond the January Blues: Good health and wellbeing the Workplace

As we reach the end of January with its short days and grey skies it's time for a bit of cheer in the air. I have been really impressed this month how many employers are prioritising their employee's mental health and wellbeing. The most purpose-driven organisations are stepping up with their commitment to employee health and wellbeing.

Employers who all see that investing in the health and wellbeing of employees pays dividends in productivity. When individuals are physically and mentally well, they are more likely to bring their A￾game to work. Purpose-led organisations recognise that fostering a positive work environment contributes to increased focus, creativity, and efficiency.

Fostering a workplace culture that prioritises health and wellbeing creates an atmosphere of care and support. Employee satisfaction and loyalty soar when organisations demonstrate a genuine investment in their wellbeing. This commitment not only benefits the workforce but also sends a powerful message to clients, customers, and potential future colleagues.

Increasingly, companies are recognising the business imperative and proactively taking measures to enhance overall wellbeing, enabling individuals to realise their full potential.

Overall good health and wellbeing is not only a key focus for employers, but also a key theme in Keir Starmer’s 5 Missions. With 2024 being an election year, it’s said to be by many, the most important in decades. Under a future Labour Government there is said to be a key focus on better public health.

Last year at the Labour Party Conference, on World Mental Health Day I was able to join a panel addressing the issue of Loneliness. Loneliness is three times more prevalent in the LGBT+ community, with individuals often being single, childless, living alone, and experiencing reduced family contact, putting them at a higher risk of social isolation.

Addressing mental health specifically, LGBT+ Labour and the Purpose Coalition focused on Labour’s plans to address mental health services across the UK, with the aim to alleviate strain on waiting lists by recruiting 8,500 additional mental health staff, funded by closing tax loopholes.

Leading Purpose Coalition employers such as Virgin Money are pioneering a flexible working initiative for its employees, known as "A Life More Virgin," demonstrating innovation in advancing internal social value.

Following a comprehensive survey of both Virgin Money staff and over 3,000 members of the public regarding their flexible working preferences, the findings revealed that 73 percent of employees believed increased flexibility would enhance their overall happiness. Additionally, 62 percent acknowledged that it would directly contribute to improving their mental health.

As a company dedicated to social mobility, leading law firm Shoosmiths recognises the importance of ensuring good health and wellbeing for both its employees and the broader community.

Through proactive measures to enhance wellbeing, firms like Shoosmiths not only enhance the quality of individual lives but also actively contribute to reducing health disparities and fostering a more equitable society.

Energy and services company Centrica, through its Wellbeing Team has demonstrated tireless effort in crafting a prominent healthcare package for its UK-based employees.

The comprehensive package encompasses various support measures for colleagues navigating life changes. Notably, the Pathway to Parenthood initiative permits five days of paid leave annually for fertility treatments, alongside financial assistance of up to £15,000 for starting a family through methods like IVF, adoption, and surrogacy.

This policy has significantly aided colleagues in accessing necessary leave and funding, fostering an environment where they feel empowered to openly discuss their support needs at work.

As the above employers show, placing employee health and wellbeing at the core of its purpose is good for employees and good for business.

Danny Davis - Director of The Purpose Coalition