As many as 41% of employees admit that they wouldn’t feel confident to tell their employer about a health issue due to concerns for their career and work relationships.
Benenden Health surveyed 2,000 employees and 500 business owners and found that the most common health issues workers have not disclosed to their employer includes poor mental health, high blood pressure and arthritis.
The top reasons given as to why workers wouldn’t want to discuss health issues are:
- Worrying that people would think they couldn’t do their job (cited by 29%)
- Believing they might lose their job (27%)
- Concerned that they would be talked about (20%)
- Worrying that people wouldn’t want to be their friend (9%).
Naomi Thompson, Head of OD at Benenden Health, said, “It is disappointing that so many people still feel they can’t speak to their employers about their wellbeing and that a sizeable number of decision makers reinforce this with dated approaches to hiring people with long-term health issues.
Thinking of appointing Dolan Accountancy?
Give us a call on 01442 795 100 or email jaime.thorpe@dolanaccountancy.com.
Email Jaime“This stigma is especially prevalent in the workplace, with businesses too often unable to identify wellbeing issues, employees concerned about the implications of discussing them and a continuing lack of tangible support, all of which contribute to lost time and productivity for businesses as well as unaddressed poor employee wellbeing.
“Healthcare support should be available to all employees – not just senior staff – and despite some misconceptions, this can be implemented at an affordable cost. Tailored wellbeing programmes, developed with employee consultation and recognising the different needs of a multigenerational workforce, can increase productivity, support recruitment and promote a happier and healthier workforce.”
To find out more about contracting please contact Jaime on 01442 795 100 or email jaime.thorpe@dolanaccountancy.com.