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Business in the Community releases latest Mental Health at Work report



Today, Business in the Community and Mercer Marsh Benefits have released their Mental Health at Work 2019 Report - Time to Take Ownership. The report is informed by YouGov survey data from more than 4,000 employees in the UK.  

The report shows that progress is being made to improve mental health in the workplace, with evidence of increased awareness and positive action - though not at the scale and speed needed.  

It also highlights that some employers are still contributing to the poor mental health of their staff through poor business practices and culture.  

The report’s key findings include:

  • Two in five (39%) of UK workers report experiencing poor mental health symptoms related to work in the last year.   
  • More than six in ten (62%) managers said that they have had to put organisational interests above staff wellbeing.  
  • 52% of those who experience mental health problems related to work say this is due to pressure such as too many priorities or targets.  

The report includes case studies from a diverse range of businesses, highlighting the steps being taken to foster a culture that protects and enhances the mental health of all employees.  

Louise Aston, Wellbeing Director, Business in the Community, said:

“While mental health awareness has risen significantly in recent years, our research shows that too many employers are tinkering at the edges of change rather than making the fundamental differences that are really needed to improve their employees’ mental health.  

“People who come to work don’t expect to be physically injured and they should also not expect to be psychologically harmed. A profound cultural shift is paramount so that work itself doesn’t cause poor mental health but instead should enhance it.  

“Those who aspire to be the best employers to attract top talent must remove the barriers to improving wellbeing, retention and productivity. Businesses are at their best when people are at their best. Let’s ensure people can bring their whole selves to work and thrive while they’re there.”