A new report has revealed that 53% of UK employees experience excessive stress due to job demands.
The findings, featured in Great Place To Work’s 2024 State of Employee Wellbeing in the Workplace report, also show that just 55% of employees look forward to going to work. Meanwhile, over a third of employees (36%) frequently consider leaving their current employer. However, the research highlights that employees with high levels of wellbeing are three times more likely to stay with their company.
STRESS HITS FRONTLINE MANAGERS HARDEST
The study, which surveyed 2,200 employees across 11 industries, highlights widespread stress and wellbeing challenges. While stress is present across all job roles, frontline managers are feeling the most pressure. Only 37% of frontline managers said their job demands do not cause excessive stress, compared to 47% of individual contributors and 44% of mid-level managers.
Frontline managers, who are responsible for both team leadership and operational duties, face a unique combination of pressures. These often lead to burnout, feelings of isolation, and a sense of being undervalued. These challenges significantly affect their wellbeing, with frontline managers reporting lower overall satisfaction compared to other employee groups.
WORKPLACE WELLBEING
Since the pandemic, employee wellbeing has become a central concern for many businesses, with the cost-of-living crisis adding further strain. Despite this, the report suggests that many organisations are still not fully meeting employees’ needs.
With 55% of employees not looking forward to work and 36% frequently contemplating leaving, improving workplace wellbeing is more important than ever, noted the report. The findings make it clear that boosting wellbeing could be key to reducing turnover, as employees with higher wellbeing are three times more likely to remain with their employer.
WHAT EMPLOYEES REALLY WANT
The report goes beyond data, incorporating insights from 1,000 employee comments. While perks and wellness programmes are appreciated, employees indicate that these initiatives often fall short of addressing core issues. Here’s a list of what employees really want from their employers:
- Work-life balance and hybrid working – Flexibility in work arrangements remains a top priority.
- Workload, resourcing and processes – Reducing excessive workloads and improving processes to lessen stress.
- Improved people management – Better management practices and stronger leadership support.
- Pay and financial security – In an uncertain economic environment, financial stability is crucial.
- Benefits and wellbeing programmes – Employees value meaningful benefits that address their overall wellbeing, not just surface-level perks.
PRIORITISING WELLBEING TO BOOST RETENTION
The research highlights the link between employee wellbeing and retention. With over a third of workers considering a job change, it is critical for businesses to address these wellbeing concerns. Failing to do so could lead to higher turnover and lower employee engagement. Organisations that invest in initiatives such as work-life balance, supportive management, and financial security are more likely to retain talent and maintain a motivated workforce.
“At the heart of every organisation is its people, and taking care of their wellbeing needs to go beyond just offering impressive perks on a careers website. Wellbeing, engagement, and trust are essential for creating a successful workplace culture,” emphasised Sara Silvonen, Senior Consultant & Wellbeing Lead at Great Place To Work UK. “By fostering an environment that encourages thriving – through thoughtful job design, a positive work environment, and high-trust relationships – organisations can drive productivity and secure long-term employee commitment to their mission.”
Click here to access the full report.
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