Westminster forum on workplace wellbeing officially launches

A new Westminster wellbeing group to tackle post-pandemic challenges undermining work health and productivity has been officially launched.

The Policy Liaison Group (PLG) on Workplace Wellbeing was formally launched in Westminster on 5 September 2024. The new cross-party forum chaired by best-selling HR author Gethin Nadin has been set up to address the critical issues facing the UK workforce. The forum brings together parliamentarians, industry stakeholders, and charities to drive consensus, deliver policy recommendations, and support effective government action that enhances wellbeing in the workplace across the UK.

The Covid pandemic and subsequent cost of living crisis have exposed the need for both policymakers and employers to address deep-seated challenges undermining workers’ motivation and ability to perform effectively. A recent study by the Institute for Public Policy Research (IPPR) found that the cost of staff sickness has risen by £30 billion a year to £103 billion. Rising presenteeism, the phenomenon of people turning up to work but struggling to perform due to poor mental and physical health is becoming increasingly troubling.

The number of people opting not to work remains at record levels, driven by a mental health crisis and widespread disenchantment with the workplace. Consequently, there is a growing demand for employers to take a more open, honest and comprehensive approach to supporting worker wellbeing. This encompasses mental and physical health, as well as financial resilience — areas where pioneering employers are already taking the initiative.

Through regular roundtables in Westminster, the Policy Liaison Group will facilitate direct dialogue between diverse stakeholders and government officials. These discussions will aim to build consensus on the policies and approaches needed to roll out effective wellbeing initiatives across the country to the benefit not only of workers but also employers through higher productivity and ultimately, the UK economy.

Nadin is supported in his mission by an Advisory Board comprising fellow worker wellbeing thought leaders, service providers dealing directly with mental health and financial wellbeing challenges, and larger employers who recognise the importance of taking care of staff needs.

Nadin, Chair of the PLG on Workplace Wellbeing said: “We’re in a transformative decade where the influence of the workplace will reshape our society. By forging strong partnerships with government and prioritising employee wellbeing, British employers hold the key to unlocking economic recovery and growth. 

“The PLG will not only raise awareness of the importance of higher quality workplaces designed with wellbeing in mind, but will ensure that employers get the opportunity to contribute to Westminster decision-making and where possible, encourage the government to better support organisations to meet these new challenges and opportunities.

“The work of the PLG will not only benefit employers, but by supporting Labour’s ‘Back to Work’ plans, has the potential to propel our nation forward. Let’s seize this opportunity to create a future where businesses and employees thrive, leading to a stronger, healthier, and a more prosperous UK for all.”