Employee Ownership of Wellbeing – Blog Series

During our recent ‘The Exchange’ meeting, a great question was posed ‘How do we develop employee ownership of wellbeing’? This series of blog articles will explore this crucial topic in detail. Today, we start with why it’s vital for both employers and employees to take an active role in promoting health and wellbeing.

It’s crucial for both employers and employees to take an active role in promoting health and wellbeing for several key reasons.

For Employers:

1. Increased Productivity – Healthy and well-supported employees are generally more productive. They are better able to focus on their tasks, have higher energy levels, and are less likely to take time off due to illness or stress-related issues.
2. Reduced Absenteeism and Presenteeism – By promoting health and wellbeing, employers can reduce absenteeism (employees not showing up to work) and presenteeism (employees showing up but not fully functioning due to health issues). This leads to a more consistent and efficient workforce.
3. Employee Retention and Attraction – A strong focus on employee wellbeing can enhance job satisfaction and loyalty, making it easier to retain talented staff and attract new talent. It shows that the organisation cares about its employees, which can be a significant differentiator in a competitive job market.
4. Enhanced Workplace Culture – Promoting wellbeing fosters a positive workplace culture where employees feel valued and supported. This can lead to better teamwork, higher morale, and a more collaborative and innovative environment.
5. Compliance and Ethical Responsibility – Employers have a legal and ethical responsibility to provide a safe and healthy work environment. Focusing on wellbeing helps ensure compliance with health and safety regulations and demonstrates corporate social responsibility.

For Employees:

1. Personal Health and Wellbeing – Employees have the most direct stake in their own health and wellbeing. By taking an active role, they can better manage their physical and mental health, leading to a higher quality of life both inside and outside of work.
2. Autonomy and Empowerment – When employees take responsibility for their wellbeing, they gain a sense of control and empowerment over their lives. This autonomy can boost self-esteem and motivation, and contribute to personal and professional growth.
3. Resilience and Adaptability – Engaging in proactive wellbeing practices helps employees build resilience and adaptability, essential skills in navigating personal and professional challenges. This resilience is particularly important in dynamic and sometimes stressful work environments.
4. Work-Life Balance – By actively managing their wellbeing, employees can achieve a better work-life balance. This balance is crucial for preventing burnout and maintaining long-term health and job satisfaction.
5. Contribution to a Positive Work Environment – Employees who prioritise their wellbeing are more likely to contribute to a positive and supportive work environment. They are better able to engage with their colleagues, participate in team activities, and support others, creating a more cohesive and harmonious workplace.

Joint Responsibility

The joint responsibility of employers and employees in promoting health and wellbeing ensures that there is a supportive infrastructure (provided by the employer) and an active engagement (from the employee) to make use of the resources and opportunities available. This partnership maximises the effectiveness of wellbeing initiatives, creating a sustainable and health-conscious workplace culture.

It’s crucial for both employers and employees to take an active role in promoting health and wellbeing. This six-part blog series delves into the concept of ‘Employee Ownership of Wellbeing,’ exploring how organisations can empower their employees to take charge of their health and happiness.

Throughout this series, we will discuss practical strategies, including the development of Wellness Action Plans (WAPs), the role of mental health first aiders, and the importance of fostering a supportive workplace culture. By the end of this series, you will gain a comprehensive understanding of how to build a work environment where employees feel empowered to take ownership of their wellbeing, thereby enhancing their overall satisfaction and resilience.

(Part 1 of 6)

Employee Ownership of Wellbeing – Blog Series
Next edition Thursday 15th August – Empowering Employees to Take Ownership

How People First can help

Are you wondering how our ‘Work and Wellbeing Coaching’ might support your employees? If you’re interested in exploring how these paradigms can be applied to improve your workplace, or if you want to learn more about our Work and Wellbeing coaching programmes, we are here to help. Together, we can create a thriving environment where both productivity and personal satisfaction are maximised.