With one in four adults facing mental health challenges each year, the stakes for employer funded mental healthcare are higher than ever. Poor mental health costs UK businesses a staggering £51 billion annually, with £24 billion attributed to presenteeism alone. As an HR leader implementing employer funded mental healthcare, you're not just managing benefits—you're shaping the wellbeing, engagement, and productivity of your team.
The case for employer funded mental healthcare in the workplace
Investing in employer funded mental healthcare is more than compassionate—it's a savvy business move.
The benefits:
- Boosted productivity: Employees with access to employer funded mental healthcare resources are healthier, take fewer sick days, and perform more effectively.
- Enhanced retention: Comprehensive employer funded mental healthcare attracts and keeps top talent.
- Cost efficiency: Preventative care reduces overall healthcare costs.
- Higher engagement: Employees who feel supported by employer funded mental healthcare are more motivated, collaborative, innovative, and satisfied.
Here's the big question: Are your employees getting the employer funded mental healthcare they need and deserve? If you're uncertain, here are our top recommendations to enhance your employer funded mental healthcare offerings.
1) How can you break the stigma around employer funded mental healthcare with Mental Health First Aid training?
Did you know 73% of employees fear disclosing mental health struggles? MHFA training empowers employees to recognise, understand, and assist colleagues facing mental health challenges. It nurtures a culture where seeking help and open discussions are encouraged.
Why MHFA is crucial:
- Reduces stigma and promotes a supportive workplace environment
- Fosters open, judgment-free communication
- Connects employees with the right resources for help
- Helps managers identify and support struggling team members
Stigma is one of the biggest barriers to seeking help. Implementing MHFA training as part of your employer funded mental healthcare can transform your workplace into a safe, inclusive, and supportive space.
2) How can EAPs empower employees through employer funded mental healthcare?
Employee Assistance Programmes (EAPs) provide employees with confidential tools and resources to navigate both personal and professional challenges while staying productive.
How EAPs benefit your workforce:
- Access to professional counselling for coping strategies and resilience
- Therapy to address and reshape negative thought patterns
- Immediate support during crises through intervention services
- Resources for stress management and work-life balance
EAPs also empower managers—33% of whom feel unequipped to address mental health concerns—with the knowledge and tools to better support their teams. By fostering resilience and offering timely assistance, employer funded mental healthcare through EAPs contributes to a healthier, more engaged workforce.
3) What role do health cash plans play in affordable employer funded mental healthcare?
For businesses working within tight budgets, health cash plans offer an affordable way to provide mental health support without the high costs of group health insurance.
Why health cash plans work:
- 24/7 counselling helplines and access to face-to-face therapy
- Tailored, affordable care that meets employees' needs
- Quick to implement and easy to use
These plans showcase your commitment to employee wellbeing while delivering practical, impactful support.
4) Why should preventative care be part of your employer funded mental healthcare strategy?
Preventative care is the foundation of a sustainable employee wellbeing strategy. Addressing mental health proactively helps tackle issues like stress, anxiety, and loneliness before they escalate.
Key preventative initiatives:
- Resilience workshops and mindfulness programmes
- Regular health checkups and wellness apps
- Team fitness challenges and social activities to build connections
Investing in preventative care reduces absenteeism, boosts morale, and lowers long-term costs.
5) How does financial wellbeing impact your employer funded mental healthcare success?
Financial stress is a leading cause of workplace distraction. Employees experiencing financial strain are nearly five times more likely to struggle with focus at work. Comprehensive mental health support can play a pivotal role in alleviating financial pressure.
Ways to support financial wellbeing:
- Offer financial literacy programmes to help employees budget and save effectively
- Provide debt counselling and student loan support
- Match savings contributions to promote long-term financial security
- Share tools, workshops, and resources for retirement planning
By addressing financial stress, you'll create a more secure, focused, and engaged workforce.
Key questions for HR leaders
As you evaluate your employer funded mental healthcare offerings, consider:
- Does our plan include accessible therapy and counselling services?
- Are we fostering a stigma-free environment for mental health support?
- Do we provide preventative programmes like mindfulness workshops or resilience training?
- Are we addressing employees' financial wellbeing effectively?
Take action
In today's competitive talent market, offering meaningful employer funded mental healthcare is no longer optional—it's essential. Prioritising mental health isn't just about doing what's right; it's a strategic move that drives engagement, productivity, and retention.
So, does your healthcare plan truly support your employees' mental health? If the answer is no, now is the time to rethink and redesign your benefits strategy to deliver the care your workforce deserves and your business demands.
Next steps:
- Find out more about prioritising your employees' health with our comprehensive health benefits.
- Book a demo of our leading flexible employee benefits software solution.
- Contact us here or give our team a call on 0800 652 4745 to discuss your employer funded mental healthcare needs.
