Businesses "flying blind" on mental health support

Barnett Waddingham research shows

Jaskeet Briah
clock • 3 min read

Independent consultancy, Barnett Waddingham, has warned that many businesses are still “flying blind” when supporting their employees, with 64% of employers reporting a rise in workforce absenteeism due to mental health issues.

Despite this increase, Barnett Waddingham said that many leaders believed they were doing enough. According to the consultancy's survey of 301 HR directors and c-suite business leaders in UK companies, nearly three-quarters (73%) of business leaders said their organisation was ‘well-prepared' to manage their employees' mental health concerns. However, under half of these businesses were collecting "comprehensive" data on mental health conditions impacting their employees. Barnett Waddingham said this highlights significant gaps in understanding the full scope of the issue. The rise...

To continue reading this article...

Join COVER for free

  • Unlimited access to real-time news, key trend analysis and industry insights.
  • Stay on top of the latest developments around health and wellbeing, diversity and inclusion and the cost of living crisis.
  • Receive breaking news stories straight to your inbox in the daily newsletter.
  • Members only access to monthly programme 'The COVER Review'
  • Be the first to hear about our CPD accredited events and awards programmes.

Join now

 

Already a Cover member?

Login

More on Employee Benefits

One in five SMEs offer employee assistance programmes

One in five SMEs offer employee assistance programmes

Canada Life research findings

Jaskeet Briah
clock 17 September 2025 • 2 min read
Nearly 70% of female workers welcome employer support for women's health

Nearly 70% of female workers welcome employer support for women's health

Physical health is the top barrier to staying in work

Jaskeet Briah
clock 12 September 2025 • 3 min read
amii adds HCML as corporate member

amii adds HCML as corporate member

Health and wellbeing solutions provider

Jaskeet Briah
clock 12 September 2025 • 2 min read