What workplace wellness support do employees really want?

Wellbeing initiatives at the workplace may not always be straightforward to manage and implement. In the world of hybrid working – are office drinks on a Friday still relevant, or are employees looking for something more?

workplace wellbeing blog main image mobile (1566x710).jpg

The workforce of today is changing, and so are their priorities. Once upon a time, after work drinks were the main way companies rewarded their staff and encouraged socialising.

Now, our research shows, when asked what makes employees feel valued - after work drinks rank lowest (25%)!

Instead, the workforce of today is far more motivated by free lunches (50%), breakfasts (42%) or filtered still and sparkling water (36%).

Given the fact that 50% of people say their finances are their top source of stress – perhaps this shouldn’t come as a surprise.

Gethin Nadin, MBPsS Psychologist and UK Mental Health Campaigner of the Year 2023

880x880.jpg

Employers can support their employees by giving them tools to better deal with the stuff life is going to throw at them. Whether that is mindfulness training, which can help improve workplace relationships and lower stress levels, or soundscapes to help calm the mind and improve concentration.

Three quick wins employers can offer their teams for a happier workforce:

workplace wellbeing_Get moving_880x880.jpg

Get moving

According to the NHS, there’s increasing evidence that sitting for long periods can be a risk to your health. Encourage your team to take regular breaks and move around the office, to improve wellbeing and focus. Carefully positioned water points can help people get those vital steps in when they get up to refill their glasses or bottles.

workplace wellbeing_know each other_880x880.jpg

Get to know each other

A third of employees don’t feel their colleagues know the ‘real’ them, despite this being important to feel motivated and supported at work. In fact, only 17% of the people we asked have a conversation with their colleagues every day. Given that most people connect with their colleagues over a break (44%) or lunch (57%), make sure your kitchen facilities are top notch. That way, people are more likely to really get to know each other.

workplace wellbeing_backtobasics_880x880.jpg

Get back to basics

Wellbeing doesn’t have to be complicated, expensive or start with an app. Remind employees that simple steps like staying hydrated, having a laugh with colleagues, and taking short screen breaks are all proven to help us feel happier and healthier at work. And will mean we are more productive in the long run.

Is it time to get people talking in your office? 46% of people say an office water dispenser would help them spark a conversation with a colleague.

Related content

workplace_710x400.jpg

Unlock the power of workplace wellbeing

BRITA's uncovers what makes office workers tick; what helps their mental wellbeing, their motivation, and the importance that workplace culture has on their working lives.

placement_710x400.jpg

Why Should you Have a Water Dispenser in your Office?

Learn the benefits of having a water dispenser within your workplace and the different types available.

wellbeing_710x400.jpg

Can your office space boost employee wellbeing?

Wellbeing initiatives are not always straightforward to manage and implement. In the world of hybrid working – are office drinks on a Friday still relevant, or are employees looking for something more?

If you need some more guidance, get in touch with our expert team to find out how to get the most out of your workspace.

* Mandatory fields
Please check your input
Please check your input
Please check your input
Please check your input
Please check your input

More information about the privacy policy.

Please type the characters you see in the image below, then click submit.

Please check your input