These two words formed the theme of a recent CWC presentation which was given by Paul Hills, Vice Chair of CWC when we were invited to be guest speaker at the Ely Informal Networking Evening hosted by Cambridgeshire Chambers of Commerce and Ely Cathedral Business Group.
We were encouraged by the wide ranging questions and discussions that arose from the talk as Paul examined why wellbeing of staff and managers plus the self employed is essential.
Paul discussed the recent research from the ‘Health and wellbeing at work 2023’ (Simply Health and CIPD report) which states:
- Levels of sickness absence are the highest in a decade at 7.8 days per employee per year.
- Employers need to keep employee wellbeing at the top of their agenda…
- 70% of respondents see their health and wellbeing activity as an opportunity to boost employee engagement.
The CWC talk presented by Paul also discussed the ways wellbeing are front and centre of employer’s minds in a post-pandemic world as businesses face a complex mix of issues including increased mental health challenges at work, staff who want value-led principles from their employer and the knock-on effect of financial struggles;
- Over half (53%) of organisations now have a stand-alone wellbeing strategy.
- 43% continue to take measures to support employee health and wellbeing in the wake of COVID-19.
- Most organisations take a holistic approach to employee wellbeing with mental health continuing as the most common focus.
- Financial wellbeing, a previously neglected area, is receiving increased attention
- 57% report their health and wellbeing activity is designed to promote financial wellbeing to a large or moderate extent.
- More organisations have employee assistance programmes (EAPs) for all or some employees (2023: 84%; 2022: 74%).
Following Paul’s overview of the current hybrid workplace environment and wellbeing challenges he explained how Workplace Chaplains can be a ‘safe space’ – impartial to the business providing a listening and understanding ear for all those who need it.
Harvey Bibby, Chair of East Cambridgeshire Chamber reflected on what a valuable service Chaplaincy can bring to businesses and their employees and we were pleased to have lots of encouraging conversations with local employers and business owners alike.
We’re very grateful to the Chamber for inviting us as guest speakers and to the Poet’s House team in Ely who kindly hosted the event.