17 Oct 2018

Research: Closing the wellbeing gap

This paper explores the interaction between work, health and wellbeing. The research from Hyman Robertson and yulife examines the changing world of work; the importance of wellbeing and work; understanding the drivers of wellbeing; and how employers can improve wellbeing.

Key findings

More than half of employees say they would always choose an employer which positively contributes to their wellbeing, even if it meant earning less money.
The report identifies a work-wellbeing gap – defined as the difference between how important work in general is to people’s wellbeing and the extent to which their current role is actually having a positive impact on their wellbeing.
The greatest wellbeing gap is for physical wellbeing (39 per cent), with the smallest gap for financial wellbeing (26 per cent).
The top five positive impacts on feeling of wellbeing at work were: satisfaction with work (39 per cent), friendship with colleagues (32 per cent), ability to work flexible hours (29 per cent), good holiday allowance (23 per cent), and interacting with customers (19 per cent).
The report outlines several methods for closing the wellbeing gap, including: maximising financial wellbeing; providing more physical, mental and social support; being digital first; and adequately managing the shift towards automation.