Only 30% of UK workers say their employers care a lot about their mental wellbeing

Six in 10 UK workers (61%) say they care a lot about their mental health, yet only 30% believe their employer cares to the same extent. The stat is just one disparity found in a recent study from youdo, which reveals a disconnect between employees and employers on the perceived value placed on key aspects of corporate social responsibility (CSR).

The youdo research, carried out among 2,000 UK workers and presented in a new report, Healthy People, Healthy Planet, reveals notable differences between the importance employees place on purpose-led initiatives, compared to their perceptions of how their employers view these:

• 91% of workers care about their mental health, compared to 74% who believe their organisation feels the same
• 92% of workers care about making a meaningful contribution, but only 71% believe their organisation cares to the same extent
• 86% want to protect the environment, compared to 74% who think their employer wants to do the same

George Chaytor-Norris, co-founder and CEO of youdo, comments: “Workers are prioritising wellbeing along with a desire to give back to others and help the environment. Importantly, they know the difference between paying lip service to a cause and actively embodying it. To secure a competitive advantage in a volatile labour market, organisations need to put strategic muscle behind employee wellbeing and sustainability programmes in a way that’s plain to see.”

The youdo research identifies ways organisations can balance the disconnect and inspire and engage employees. Workers identified three key aspects that would increase their engagement with company initiatives for wellbeing and the environment:

1. Getting involved in activities they enjoy and are passionate about
2. Having a choice rather than being told what to do
3. Non-financial benefits, for example paid time off or earning rewards

Chaytor-Norris continues: “Employees are often under-used when organisations want to take meaningful steps to deliver successful wellbeing and environmental initiatives. Leadership teams should be looking for active contributions from all levels of the organisation into schemes that are, after all, for everyone. Being able to contribute to and shape company programmes will have a positive impact on job satisfaction and empower teams to live healthier lives and create a healthier planet.”

youdo is a mobile app that connects employees, wellbeing, and environmental and social initiatives. Employees are empowered to do what they love with like-minded colleagues, with every activity earning Earth Tokens, which can be redeemed as donations to environmental and social impact projects.