UK EMPLOYEES PUT WELLBEING AND BALANCE BEFORE NIGHTS OUT
British employees are increasingly prioritising their own wellbeing over socialising, with nearly three in five saying they have focused on self-care in the last six months, according to new research by Reward Gateway | Edenred.
The study revealed that 58% of UK workers have made wellbeing a priority in the past half year, up significantly from 40% who said the same over the past year. Among the most popular activities are making time for oneself (67%), regular exercise (55%) and ensuring enough sleep (54%).
Healthy lifestyles are also becoming a bigger priority, with 46% of respondents focused on maintaining a good diet and nearly a third (29%) reducing their alcohol intake, either cutting back completely or turning to alcohol-free alternatives.
Work-life balance has also emerged as a major concern. Almost half (48%) of those surveyed said it was their most important priority. Some 35% reported using all of their annual leave, 29% said they take their lunch breaks and finish work on time, and 15% have reduced or changed their working hours, including moving to part-time schedules.
The report also highlighted the growing popularity of creative and therapeutic outlets: 16% of workers have taken up new hobbies, 12% have started therapy or talking sessions, and another 12% now participate in wellbeing workshops and classes.
Chris Britton, People Experience Director at Reward Gateway | Edenred, said: “Life has never felt as fast-paced as it does now, which is why it’s great that employees are putting themselves first and slowing down. Whether that’s by re-energising with some deserved alone time, or getting in a full eight hours of sleep, it’s important that our British workforce is doing what they need to feel well-rested, happy and, most importantly, in the best condition to go through their day productively.
“There are more people on benefits than ever before and worklessness continues to be an issue the Government is struggling to unravel – so it’s encouraging that our workers are taking matters into their own hands. But this shouldn’t be a lonely road towards success, especially in the middle of the country’s health crisis. Wellbeing should be at the forefront of business agendas, and the Government should support this move if we want to see the country, and its people, thrive.
“Consistent, visible communication, self-serving wellbeing tools and workplace benefits are just some of the ways to do this. Not only does it demonstrate support from a position of leadership, but it also removes the stigma around health, and ill-health. Everyone deserves to feel supported in their wellness journey, and it’s time for businesses to harness the potential to make a positive change in their employees’ lives.”
