Corporate Health and Well-Being
Improved health and well-being in the workplace bring a number of benefits for both employers and employees. Research shows that corporate health and well-being programmes help workers give up unhealthy habits including smoking, lose excess body weight and prevent/manage a range of medical conditions including high blood pressure (hypertension), high cholesterol and diabetes, to mention just a few. Also, healthy workers have less problems with sleep, stress and other issues affecting both their psychological and physical well-being.
Corporate health and well-being programmes also bring a number of benefits for employers. A recent research which analysed the results of several dozen studies on the issue found that companies with comprehensive well-being programmes have on average up to a quarter less sick leaves. In addition to helping their employees stay healthy and fit, corporate health and well-being programmes thus also help companies save money - both directly and indirectly. Workers who feel appreciated are more motivated for work and more motivated workers are more productive.
To Make Corporate Health and Well-Being Programmes Work
In order for corporate health and well-being programmes to work, it is crucial for them to be:
-
Selected according to the workers’ needs and preferences. There is a range of well-being programmes developed especially for corporate groups. Examples include stress management programmes, yoga classes, cooking classes, weight loss programmes, smoking cessation programmes,… Which one(s) to choose is up to each company to decide, however, it is highly important to consider the worker’s needs and preferences.
-
Engaging, fun and accessible. It is highly important for the programme(s) to change or/and evolve in order for them to stay engaging, fun and motivating. Also, make sure that the chosen programme(s) are accessible – both literally and figuratively. It is crucial for them not to cause any inconvenience, for example to be a long drive away, take place at awkward times, be suitable only for those with prior experience/knowledge, etc.
-
A part of the overall plan to make the work environment a health-friendly place. The best results are achieved if well-being programmes are combined with other measures that promote health and well-being in the workplace, for example healthy food that is both tasty and affordable, regular breaks, etc. Also, it is of utmost importance to ensure that employees working in hazardous activities and conditions are adequately protected.