Supporting Workplace Wellbeing Could Help More People Stay in Employment

Supporting people to stay healthy and productive at work could become one of the UK’s greatest opportunities to strengthen both the economy and the workforce. As businesses continue to face skills shortages while economic inactivity remains high, increasing attention is being given to how employers can better support staff experiencing physical or mental health challenges before they leave employment altogether.

Former John Lewis chairman Sir Charlie Mayfield has argued that helping people remain in work through earlier intervention could unlock significant economic growth. Rather than waiting until employees become long-term absent or leave the workforce completely, businesses could introduce better occupational health support, encourage earlier conversations about wellbeing and make practical workplace adjustments where needed.

For many people, leaving work because of illness or poor wellbeing is not a decision they want to make. A temporary health challenge can quickly become long-term unemployment if support is unavailable or arrives too late. Confidence often falls alongside financial security, making it increasingly difficult for people to believe they can return to meaningful employment.

This challenge affects people across every stage of their working lives. Whether someone is beginning their career, rebuilding after redundancy or approaching later life, good workplace support can make the difference between remaining employed and becoming economically inactive. Flexible working, reasonable adjustments, access to occupational health services and supportive management can all help employees continue contributing while protecting their wellbeing.

Employers also benefit from investing in workplace health. Retaining experienced staff reduces recruitment costs, preserves valuable knowledge and helps businesses build more resilient workforces. Supporting existing employees is often more effective than continually replacing skilled workers who leave because challenges were not identified early enough.

Creating healthier workplaces is about more than reducing sickness absence. It is about recognising that people sometimes need additional support during different stages of life. A culture that encourages open conversations, early intervention and practical solutions helps both individuals and organisations succeed together.

At I’M MORE, we believe everyone deserves the opportunity to build a career that supports both their wellbeing and their future. Whether someone is facing health challenges, returning after time away from work or looking for a fresh start, people are always more than the difficulties they are experiencing today. If you’re interested in how employers can create more inclusive workplaces and expand career opportunities, explore our article on new proposals to encourage more employers to create opportunities for young people. By investing in healthier workplaces, stronger employment support and opportunities to rebuild confidence, more people can remain in work, rediscover their potential and continue building meaningful careers.