Four in five employers (80%) believe that they are good at supporting employees when returning to work following a long-term illness or injury, up from 74% in 2024, according to Aviva.
The survey of around 500 companies in the UK found that the health of the workforce has become a higher priority for senior managers.
Almost nine in 10 employers (87%) believe they have a responsibility to support employees with a health condition to remain in work rather than waiting until they need to take long-term sick leave.
Aviva’s research suggests the government’s Keep Britain Working review has helped accelerate changes in workplace practices.
More than four in five employers (83%) surveyed said that the review has influenced their approach to supporting employees with health conditions or disabilities.
Come together
When employers were asked what would help them to better support their workforce to remain in work, 56% called for a greater focus on public health and supporting people to live healthier lives.
This means government, healthcare providers and industry working closer together.
Half of respondents said they would like greater guidance on accessing best-practice support services, while 48% want help to make those services affordable.
This was slightly ahead of additional guidance on employer best practice at 47%.
Can’t do it alone
Aviva UK Health medical director and sustainability lead Dr Suba M (pictured) said employee health is a growing priority for businesses.
“Since the Keep Britain Working review was announced in 2024, more employers recognise the role they can play in helping employees stay in work and getting them back to work following ill health.
“It’s encouraging to see growing confidence among employers and a clear commitment to invest in the health and wellbeing of their workforce. However, businesses are equally clear that tackling economic inactivity cannot be achieved by employers alone.
“There is a strong appetite for greater collaboration between employers, government and healthcare providers, alongside a stronger focus on prevention and public health.
“Helping more people stay healthy, remain in work and return to work requires coordinated action across all stakeholders.”