What Support Should Companies Be Offering to Employees?

In today’s workplace, supporting employees is no longer just a nice extra — it’s essential for building a healthy, productive, and loyal workforce. 

Companies that look after their staff’s physical, emotional, and practical needs tend to see better performance, lower turnover, and stronger morale. Providing the right support shows employees that they are valued as people, not just as workers.

Promoting Physical Health

Good health is the foundation of a strong workforce. Companies should ensure that employees have access to essential health benefits such as optical, dental, and physiotherapy support. 

Regular eye and dental check-ups not only prevent long-term health problems but also help employees stay focused and confident. Physiotherapy, meanwhile, can reduce pain and injury for those who sit at desks or work in physically demanding roles.

According to the Office for National Statistics, more than 30 million working days are lost each year in the UK due to musculoskeletal problems. By offering physical health support, businesses can reduce absences and create a culture that values wellbeing. Some organisations also provide gym memberships, healthy eating programmes, or wellbeing allowances — all of which encourage a more active lifestyle.

Supporting Working Parents

Childcare remains one of the biggest challenges for working families. Rising costs and limited availability can make it hard for parents to balance their careers with family life. Companies can make a real difference by offering practical support, such as childcare vouchers, partnerships with local nurseries, or on-site childcare facilities.

Flexible working hours are also key. Allowing parents to adjust their schedules or work remotely when needed helps reduce stress and improves job satisfaction. 

A report by the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development found that two-thirds of employees believe flexible working improves their wellbeing. When parents feel supported, they’re more likely to stay with the company and perform better at work.

Focusing on Mental Health

Mental health in the office has become a central issue in the modern workplace. Stress, anxiety, and burnout can affect anyone, regardless of role or seniority. Companies should provide easy access to counselling, therapy, and mental health resources. This can include cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), mindfulness sessions, or confidential helplines for those struggling to cope.

Support should also extend to those facing difficult life situations such as addiction help for employees but other basic emotional challenges that arise from grief, or divorce. Many employees hesitate to speak up about personal challenges, fearing stigma or judgement. Employers that offer non-judgemental support, training for managers, and clear policies on mental health show real leadership. Encouraging open conversations helps to normalise the idea that mental wellbeing is just as important as physical health.

Building an Emotionally Healthy Workplace

Emotional wellbeing is closely tied to how people feel at work. Simple things like positive communication, recognition of achievements, and a sense of belonging can make a big difference. Regular check-ins, mentorship programmes, and team-building activities can help employees feel connected and supported.

Leadership plays a vital role here. Managers who are trained to spot signs of stress or disengagement can take early action to support their teams. Creating a culture of empathy and respect helps employees feel safe to speak up about issues before they become bigger problems.

Creating a Culture of Care

The best support doesn’t come from isolated perks — it comes from a culture of care that runs throughout the organisation. Health benefits, flexible working, and mental health support should all be part of a wider commitment to employee wellbeing. When staff feel genuinely cared for, they bring more energy, creativity, and loyalty to their work.

Investing in employee support is not just the right thing to do — it makes business sense. Healthier, happier employees take fewer sick days, are more engaged, and stay longer with their employers. By offering comprehensive support that covers physical, emotional, and practical needs, companies can build workplaces where people truly thrive.