Maintaining employee health, wherever they work

Working from home sounded like a great idea to begin with - working in our pyjamas, setting our own hours, picking our own music - but there’s evidence to suggest that it may not have been all that we thought it would be.

Whilst some people certainly have thrived through lockdown, there are a number of studies that have found that both our physical and mental health have suffered.

Musculoskeletal health has been particularly affected, largely due to poor posture caused by improvised work stations.

Even more concerning is the significant effect the pandemic is having on our mental health caused by issues such as social isolation, boredom and reduced fresh air and exercise.

This should serve as a serious warning for employers as mental health was the biggest cause of workplace absence last year, with almost 13 million days lost according to the Health and Safety Executive.

To keep their teams healthy, happy and productive, employers must ensure at-home workers adhere to health and safety guidelines, including display screen equipment (DSE) assessments.

Investment in wellbeing can deliver up to £5 return for every £1 spent.

Even where teams are returning to work, in full or in part, the pandemic has seen many businesses appreciate just how important health and wellbeing really is. 

There are the obvious benefits of reducing absences through the prevention of ill health, but also the competitive gains of attracting and retaining the best talent. In fact, Deloitte calculated that investment in wellbeing can deliver up to £5 return for every £1 spent.

Investing in a good wellbeing strategy will not just benefit your employees, but will also help your organisation run more effectively, with a healthier bottom line as a result.

• To read this feature in full and access further Lancashire business news, advice and analysis subscribe to Lancashire Business View magazine or join the LBV Hub from just £2.50 per month. Click here to subscribe now.