New research from Towergate Health & Protection has highlighted the expanding range of areas where employees seek support. The study has revealed that more than 20% of employers expect increased demand for assistance in areas such as caring responsibilities, fertility, neurodiversity, addiction, and gender identity.
Traditionally, employee support focused on health and well-being, but the scope of needs has notably broadened. For instance, 29% of employers anticipate greater demand for assistance with caring responsibilities.
Debra Clark, head of wellbeing at Towergate Health & Protection, emphasized the complexity employers face, stating: “From nutrition advice to risk of cancer, from eldercare to fertility, and from social interaction to addiction support: the areas in which employees want or need support have reached a level where employers themselves need help in managing the options.”
The research provided insight into specific areas where employers expect increased demand for support in the coming year. Mental health leads the list, with 41% of employers anticipating greater demand, followed by health screening (30%) and caring responsibilities (29%). Other areas of expected growth include: general fitness (29%), fertility (23%), neurodiversity (22%), addiction (22%), and gender identity (21%).
One of the key challenges for employers is staying informed about the available support services. Experts in the field are essential, as they are knowledgeable about both widely known and niche areas where employees may need assistance, and employers can also better explore options for employee support.
Effective communication also plays a vital role in ensuring employees are aware of the support available to them. Employers must ensure that information is easily accessible and communicated in a way that resonates with the diverse demographics within their workforce, it was stated. Frequent and relevant messaging was recommended to keep employees engaged and informed.
Clark noted: “Today’s employer is supporting employees through situations that are outside of the traditional employee benefits sphere, and what is perhaps most staggering is the sheer range of areas that an employer may now be expected to assist. Employers should remember that they are not alone and that there are experts available to help them through the process of supporting their employees.”
As the range of support areas continues to grow, employers are encouraged to seek expert guidance to ensure they can effectively meet these needs.
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