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policies in their own teams.”
In response to the report’s findings,
the CIPD is calling for senior leaders
to prioritise wellness at work. It is
encouraging greater investment in
health and well-being by training
managers so they are confident and
competent to support staff.
“Managers should be helping to
alleviate stress among their staff,
not contributing to it. But too many
managers are being set up to fail
because they haven’t received
adequate training, despite
them often being the first
person employees will turn to
when they have a problem,”
said Rachel.
She added: “Rates of
presenteeism and leaveism,
which are both linked to
stress, remain stubbornly
high. Employers have a
responsibility to tackle these
bad habits. They must also
realise that staff are not
going to perform at their
best if they are working
when ill or using up holiday
to work rather than recharge.
“It’s vital that businesses
recognise the importance of well-
being initiatives and training for line
managers. Senior leaders should work
with their HR experts to ensure there is
sufficient training and an overall culture
of well-being in their workplaces.”
Pam Whelan, Director of Corporate
at Simplyhealth, said: “People are an
organisation’s greatest asset and so it
is crucial that senior leaders recognise
the importance of investing in their
employees. Line managers play a
frontline role and are often best placed
to support with health and well-being,
but this year’s report shows there is
more work to be done to better support
them with training and guidance.
“In addition, there are further steps
organisations can take to help reduce
stress-related absence and encourage
a preventative approach. Fostering
a culture where employees feel they
can seek support when they need it is
key, and initiatives such as offering an
employee assistance programme and
flexible working arrangements can
help improve an employee’s work/life
balance.”
The CIPD is the professional body for HR
and people development. To read the report
in full, visit www.cipd.co.uk/knowledge/
culture/well-being/health-well-being-work

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