Nine in 10 HRs say employee wellbeing ‘extremely important’

Nearly nine in 10 (87.5%) of UK based HR professionals have said employee wellbeing is extremely important to their organisation, according to a new report.

The report, based on a survey of 200 HR professionals, was conducted by CIPD qualification provider MOL and claims the findings show that companies have taken genuine steps to support their employees.

Carried out in conjunction with People Management Insight, the survey focused on the impact of the pandemic on organisations. It looked at the challenges they faced and how they have adapted, with a specific focus on wellbeing, sustainability of remote working and the future of the workplace.

As the pandemic put added pressure on families and carers it’s clear that employers were well placed to respond to employees’ needs. 81.5% of survey respondents agreed with the statement ‘My company has clearly defined procedures if employees need time off, e.g. for caring responsibilities’.

65% of respondents agreed their company has a proactive mental health support programme.

Throughout a difficult period, coping with the unexpected challenges of isolation and working from home caused difficulties for all professionals. Our survey asked how HR professionals coped with working from home throughout the last year and 70% agreed they felt like they were being held hostage in their own home.

Respondents also said there had been benefits to lockdown with more than half (52%) stating they had developed a new love for gardening, nature and the outdoors.

However, in the report nearly all (95% of respondents) agreed with the statement ‘Working from home is not the same experience for all employees – it depends on the socio-economic group and age’.

Comments included: “There is inherent discrimination (young people or those socio-economically disadvantaged) who may have less access to suitable working environments” and “Working from home creates greater social isolation and this is impacting mental health.”

Emily Allen, MOL CIPD product manager, said “As all professionals faced the rigours and challenges of the pandemic it’s great to hear that those working within the people profession felt supported in the workplace by their employers.

“The trend towards supporting individuals within the workplace is something many HR teams will lead on and deliver for their organisation, so it’s heartening to see the challenges faced are being understood within our profession.”