But around half say their benefits plan is not sufficient for overall needs
Canadian workers are feeling the strain of their finances and are concerned about their health and are increasing looking to their employers to help with both.
While many employers offer varying degrees of employee benefits, a new report from Environics Research commissioned by Dialogue has found that around half of employees who participated in the study say the overall benefits plan offered does not meet their needs or is insufficient.
Although 71% of respondents said they have become more conscious of their health in recent years, one third have a negative view of their current state of wellbeing including physical and mental health, sleep, and financial wellness.
Getting help with these issues though can be a problem in itself with 39% of employees citing financial constraints, 41% feeling a lack of motivation, and 45% saying they don’t have the time.
The role that workplace benefits can play in improving overall wellbeing is clear from the study and 47% of employees said they wanted to improve their wellbeing and intend to use plans offered by their employer.
"Taking care of one's well-being goes beyond seeking help when you are feeling unwell. It means maintaining a healthy lifestyle with accessible solutions to reduce stress every day," shared Dr. Stephanie Moynihan, associate medical director at Dialogue. "To get there, Canadians must have the right tools, which range from treatment-based solutions, self-serve resources, habit trackers, and wellness challenges — and employers need to make these solutions clear with employees."
Employers costs
Financial barriers to better wellbeing provision is not just an issue for employees with 71% of HR professionals who took part in the study citing budget constraints.
However, the report also highlights the cost of not providing better benefits plans, such as burnout and productivity impacts, and weakening the ability to attract and retain the best people.
Ahsan Sadiq, VP, Health & Wellness at Environics, noted that benefits should be made more accessible to employees and ensure they are properly utilized.
"Employer-paid services, properly catered to employee needs, can help improve workforce well-being, job satisfaction, work-life balance, as well as improve chances of attracting top talent," he said.
