7 reasons why now is the time to launch a wellbeing benefit
Workplace productivity can drop by up to 20% during summer months, according to the latest eBook from Epassi.
Just under half (45%) of employees say they’re more distracted, leading to decreased focus, motivation and productivity.
Changes in routines, pace, personal demands and work environments play a quiet but powerful role in shaping how employees show up at work during this time.
Summer offers moments of renewal and rest with longer days, holidays and outdoor socialisation. However, it can also create stress, burnout and disruption as employees juggle heavy workloads, childcare, and the pressure to make the most of every sunny moment.
So, if ever there was a perfect time to consider the addition of wellbeing benefits, it’s now.
Here are some reasons why businesses should consider wellbeing benefits as people get back to normal after the summer:
1. Set the tone
Launching a wellbeing benefit at the end of summer is like showing up to a meeting with snacks. It’s unexpected, appreciated and can immediately put a smile on the face of others.
It helps to set a precedent that wellbeing isn’t just a one-off initiative, but an important part of your culture. A precedent that you want employees to look after their health, wealth and self.
When Autumn rolls in, bringing with it a flurry of deadlines and meetings (not to mention preparing for the Christmas period and potential leave further down the line), your team will already be in a better head space.
2. Summer is the season for recharge
Summer is the perfect time to help employees mentally reboot, reflect, and recharge.
Introducing wellbeing benefits at the end of summer helps to build on this period of rejuvenation – tapping into employees recharged state, to encourage them to put their health and wellbeing first.
3. A seasonal energy boost
Before the winter nights set in, now is a great time to help employees establish new habits. With sunshine and serotonin on your side, the introduction of wellbeing benefits during this time can help increase employee engagement and participation.
4. Lower absenteeism and raise morale
According to Epassi’s eBook, each year, employees have on average 43.6 ineffective days due to poor health.
This equates to a £138.3 billion loss to the UK economy each year.
Proactive wellbeing benefits help reduce sick days and can keep team spirits at an all-time high.
5. Money worries don’t take a summer holiday
Summer can be an expensive time of year, especially for working parents. The cost of childcare, holiday camps and more can make it a tough time of year for some.
The introduction of wellbeing benefits after the summer, in this case financial, can help provide financial coaching and budgeting advice for those that need it most.
6. Boost your anytime benefit offering
Most companies that offer flexible employee benefits will have an annual enrolment window.
Introducing new wellbeing perks can be the perfect way to engage employees with their benefits platform outside of their typical selection period.
7. It helps you lead by example
Equipping managers and team leaders with a healthy work-life balance model throughout the year makes the transition into the autumn months much easier. This can include anything from always taking a lunch break to hosting wellbeing activities and catch-ups.
Supplied by REBA Associate Member, Epassi UK
Creating a fitter, happier and more productive workforce now, and for future generations.
