Research shows full spectrum of increased health and wellbeing support needs

News
Joanne Swann
black flat screen tv turned on near green plant

Research by Towergate Health & Protection into how hybrid working has changed the emphasis of health and wellbeing support shows there is a full spectrum of increased needs among employees. While mental health tops the list, all four pillars of health and wellbeing are strongly represented as areas where increased support is wanted.

Percentage of employers stating the importance of these areas has increased for their employees:

  • Support for mental health 57%
  • Being able to have 24/7 access to a virtual GP 50%
  • Being able to access support to prevent ill-health, such as advice on fitness and nutrition 48%
  • Support for financial health 48%
  • Better understanding of their own specific health risks of their general health and wellbeing, for instance fitness levels 46%
  • Social interaction and sense of community within the workplace 46%
  • Being able to access support for dependants, such as children, elderly relatives 42%
  • Better understanding of their own specific health risks of potentially serious illnesses, such as cancer 42%
  • Being able to access support and treatment for musculoskeletal (MSK) issues 41%
  • Being able to have swift access to a face-to-face GP 37%
  • Being able to easily access screening for cancer 32%

 Debra Clark, head of specialist consulting at Towergate Health & Wellbeing, says:

Employees’ needs have changed in the new hybrid working world, and health and wellbeing support must adapt in turn. Programmes need to be all-encompassing, across of four pillars of health and wellbeing: mental, physical, social, and financial.

Debra Clark, head of specialist consulting at Towergate Health & Wellbeing

After mental health support, access to a virtual GP 24/7 is the area that has grown most in importance according to half of employers (50%). This reflects the struggles that many employees are having in getting an NHS GP appointment. This ties in with the increased demand for preventative health support and risk profiling, with employers aware that their staff understand the importance of looking more holistically at their wellbeing and the benefit of living healthier lives.

Employees want to be aware of potential issues and want to know how best to avoid potential problems. Employers can make a real and valued difference to their employees in these areas by offering access to support such as virtual GPs, screening, and risk profiling, all of which will help to improve the overall health and wellbeing of the workforce.

The after-effects of the pandemic are still being seen and this is perhaps reflected in the changed mindset about what employees would like support for. The increased importance of social interaction and support for musculoskeletal (MSK) issues are closely linked to the changes in working habits since Covid. Employees are also facing struggles with accessing care for both children and elderly relatives, which explains the increased importance to access support for dependants.

Debra Clark says: 

The working environment has changed for many and so have priorities regarding health and wellbeing. Employers must take the time to find out what support employees want most and modify their programme where needed to provide the most effective solutions.

Joanne Swann, Content Manager, WorkWellPro
Editor at Workplace Wellbeing Professional | Website |  + posts

Joanne is the editor for Workplace Wellbeing Professional and has a keen interest in promoting the safety and wellbeing of the global workforce. After earning a bachelor's degree in English literature and media studies, she taught English in China and Vietnam for two years. Before joining Work Well Pro, Joanne worked as a marketing coordinator for luxury property, where her responsibilities included blog writing, photography, and video creation.

Share

Latest News

Latest Analysis

Related Articles

Patience Ogunbona: Why Introverted Leaders Are Burning Out in Workplaces Built for Extroverts

There is a version of leadership that gets rewarded in most organisations. It is loud, visible, and always on. It is the kind that gets promoted.

Half of Bereaved Employees ‘Managing Death Administration During Work Hours’

Half of UK employees who have lost a loved one are handling practical bereavement-related tasks during their working day, according to new research.

Top Usa Real Cash Casinos 2026 Verified By Experts

Discover the top USA real cash casinos verified by experts in 2026. Compare licensed online casinos offering generous bonuses, thousands of slots, live dealer games, and secure banking options for American players.

Why UK Players Are Flocking to Online Casinos Outside GamStop

UK players are increasingly choosing unregulated offshore casinos over GamStop-licensed sites to access bigger bonuses, faster payouts, and fewer gameplay restrictions like spin-speed limits. While these non-GamStop platforms offer greater freedom and higher welcome packages, they lack UK Gambling Commission protections, making operator reputation and licensing verification essential for safe play.
Previous article
Breathing techniques to reduce anxiety and promote sleep
Next article
Victoria Davidson: Physical wellbeing challenges across generations – integrating them into your program