Eight in 10 employers have introduced wellbeing benefits as a direct result of the pandemic, according to findings from Mercer Marsh Benefits.
The firm’s research found 83% of respondents introduced new wellbeing offerings as a direct result of the pandemic.
In addition six in 10 employers changed their value added benefits and four in 10 changed their core benefits.
However, despite a majority of companies (69%) increasing their benefit spend considerably during the pandemic, just half (55%) of employees felt they received the support they needed at the right time.
And while most companies (88%) moved quickly to adapt their benefits in response to the pandemic, only 22% of employees knew their benefits had changed and four in 10 felt their employee experience was worse as a result of the pandemic.
The Digital Revolution – Accelerated approaches to employee reward, wellbeing and engagement report found that those who did notice a change in benefits offered appreciated increased mental wellbeing support the most.
David Dodd, partner at Mercer Marsh Benefits. said: “While the pandemic caused businesses to pivot their benefits offering at a pace not previously thought possible, employees are yet to notice an improved experience.
“Better communication is needed to close this gap, as well as delivering more relevant, personalised benefits, ideally through a consumer grade digital experience. When employers get it right, the results are tangible and visible through greater workforce engagement.
“In this period dubbed the great resignation, ensuring the workforce feels supported and heard is not only important in fostering a positive culture, it is also key to effective talent retention and attraction.”