Staff look to employers for benefits packages

Hardworking staff are urging businesses to shake up their employment benefit schemes, according to new research.

While almost half of full-time employees admit they'd feel more loyal to their employer if they were offered health-related benefits, three quarters say they don't receive any benefits at all from their current employer.

Norwich Union Healthcare's 'Well-being at Work' study also revealed that companies could be wasting over £1,500 million on benefits that are out of step with their employees' needs.

The research amongst 1,000 companies shows that many are offering traditional perks such as subsidised canteens and free medicals, when in fact their staff are looking for 21st Century benefits that fit in with their busy lifestyles.

Almost a third say they'd like a personal fitness trainer or on-site GP as part of their employment package while a quarter would like their company to introduce duvet days - where staff are granted a last minute 'no questions asked' day off work.

The most common health-related perks currently being offered by bosses are free fresh fruit in the office, a working from home policy and wellness rooms to allow staff to take time out or a break during work hours.

Dr Doug Wright, clinical development manager for Norwich Union Healthcare, said: "Today's workplace is very different from that of 20 years ago and employers need to understand the different pressures their staff are faced with.

"It's even more difficult for working parents to cope with the stresses of employment, with British parents the worst off in Europe emotionally and financially - maternity pay has fallen in real terms and is now less than half the European average.

"Our research shows that providing the health-related benefits and perks that employees want not only play a key role in staff retention and happiness, but also dramatically improve their quality of life."

Mike Emmott, spokesperson for the Chartered Institute of Personnel Development, added: "Organisations increasingly faced with stressed staff and high turnover rates, or struggling to maintain morale and productivity, are realising the importance of health-related benefits in improving the effectiveness of their employees.

"Employers who take the time to find out the kinds of benefits their employees want will reap the rewards in the form of improved performance and motivation, more effective recruitment, reduced cost of stress and reduced absenteeism. Few companies will be able to afford not to make them a priority."

(MB)