40% of all claims submitted last year were able to go back to work because of early intervention

As business leaders, we’re all aware that the wellbeing of our employees directly impacts the success and productivity of the business.

However, while traditional health insurance and benefits may offer some protection, Employee Benefits Schemes are the true game-changer in creating a proactive, supportive environment.

In fact, 40% of all claims submitted last year through Employee Benefits Schemes resulted in employees being able to return to work sooner, thanks to early intervention services.

This highlights the value that these schemes can offer, in both supporting your team's health and also in minimising sick days and improving long-term productivity.

The importance of early intervention

One of the biggest advantages of an Employee Benefits Scheme is access to early intervention programmes. When an employee faces a health issue, whether it’s physical, mental, or stress-related, having the right support at the earliest possible stage can significantly reduce the length of absence and help them make a speedy recovery.

Here’s why early intervention works:

1. Faster access to health professionals

Employees covered by an Employee Benefits Scheme often have quicker access to healthcare professionals, including physiotherapists, mental health specialists, and wellness coaches. These professionals can assess the situation early on, provide the right treatment, and help employees recover more quickly.

2. Mental health support for a swift return

Early intervention isn’t just about physical health, it’s also about mental health. Employee Benefits Schemes often offer counselling services, stress management resources, and Employee Assistance Programmes (EAPs). By addressing mental health concerns early, you can help employees overcome burnout, anxiety, and depression before they result in long-term absences.

3. Occupational health assessments

Some schemes include access to occupational health assessments, where medical professionals can determine the impact of an illness or injury on an employee’s ability to perform their role. These assessments help businesses create tailored plans that help get staff back to work.

4. Personalised rehabilitation plans

A tailored rehabilitation plan can play a key role in getting employees back to work. Employee Benefits Schemes often include rehabilitation services that support employees through physical or mental recovery, ensuring they can return to their roles with confidence, with a reduced risk of recurrence, and in a safe, supportive manner.

The case for Employee Benefits Schemes

The real value of Employee Benefits Schemes goes beyond supporting employees during tough times - it’s also a vital investment in your business’s long-term success. By providing early intervention and support, companies can:

• Reduce sick days by supporting employees through the recovery process.
  
  
• Boost productivity as employees return to work sooner and with better focus.
  
  
• Enhance employee loyalty by demonstrating your commitment to their wellbeing.
  
  
• Minimise recruitment costs as employees are less likely to leave due to unresolved health issues.

With the added bonus of improved employee retention and a better company culture, investing in an Employee Benefits Scheme is not just a nice-to-have, it's a must-have for businesses that want to keep their teams happy, healthy, and engaged.

Prioritising early intervention is key

HR directors and business owners should consider Employee Benefits Schemes as a key part of their strategy for employee wellbeing.

The statistics speak for themselves - 40% of claims last year resulted in quicker returns to work because of early intervention. This not only reduces the long-term cost of sick days but also reinforces a positive culture of care and productivity in the workplace.

Investing in early intervention today can lead to a happier, healthier workforce tomorrow. If you’re not already offering an Employee Benefits Scheme, now is the time to take action and give your employees the support they deserve.