Less than one-third (31%) of employers believe that most of their employees have a good understanding of the full range of benefits on offer in their workplace, according to research by Towergate Health and Protection.
Its survey of 500 HR decision makers across UK organisations of all sizes from a range of industries, also found that benefits communication needs widespread improvement.
One-third (37%) of respondents said that most of their staff have a good understanding of some of the benefits provided and 17% answered that only some employees have a good understanding of some of the benefits provided.
Conversely, just 2% felt that most of their employees have a poor understanding of the full range of benefits provided.
Debra Clark, head of wellbeing at Towergate Health and Protection, said: “An employee may have awareness of the benefits that interest them now but if their circumstances change, they may not know how to access the best support. For example, they may not take notice of the mental health support in place as they don’t feel it applies to them. If the situation suddenly changes and they have a mental health crisis, they won’t know where to find crucial help.
“If employers are investing in health and wellbeing support, then it is vital that they also invest in the communication of this support. A business can offer the best benefits in the industry, but if employees are not aware of them, then neither they, nor the business will reap the rewards. How support will be communicated should be considered upfront as part of the process of selecting benefits.”