The Health and Safety executive (HSE) have published figures relating to work related stress in Great Britain for 2015 which makes quite surprising reading. The sad thing is that many people are still embarrassed to admit to their colleagues or managers that stress, anxiety or depression is part of their lives. Within this survey however the actual loss of working days in 2014/2015 for this condition was 9.9 million. This is an alarming figure for both the employees suffering with the illness and the employer trying to keep their business running.

http://www.hse.gov.uk/statistics/causdis/stress/stress.pdf

What can you do to support your staff in relation to Work Related Stress?

There are a number of products available on the UK health insurance market that provide specific cover for counseling, support and practical advice for both the employer and the employee. They all vary in the degree of cover and benefits available depending on the policy and the insurer who provides it:

• Employee Assistance Programme
• Occupational Health policies
• Private Medical Insurance
• Cash Plans

Essentially the mental health support provided is fully confidential to the employee. Solutions are provided by expert and qualified professionals who have the experience to help employees to find a resolution to whatever problems they are experiencing.

The cost of providing this valuable support for your staff does vary; EAP’s tend to be one of the more cost effective options.

The Cost of Supporting employees vs the Cost of Absenteeism

By finding out what products are available for your business and balancing this against the cost that absenteeism is currently costing your bottom line,  we are confident you will see the benefit in the investment in a policy of this nature. After all, your employees are a valuable commodity and therefore looking after their welfare will be money well spent.

If you would like one of the team to contact you to discuss the best options available to you then please contact us on 0800 047 0127 or 01245 929129, email enquiries@smphealthcare.com