More than nine in 10 (91%) of UK healthcare employees are failing to make the most of their workplace benefits, according to new research.
Findings from benefits provider Sodexo Engage showed that just 9% of these workers claim to be utilising their employee perks to their full potential.
The Mountain of Lost Benefits: Spotlight on Healthcare report found that when asked about their most favoured benefits, a quarter (25%) cited retail discounts or cashback (25%), while occupational sick pay and financial wellbeing-related benefits were named by 22% and 16% respectively.
The research, which surveyed 500 HR professionals and 2,000 employees, examined how both groups valued employee benefits and discovered a notable disparity between them.
Nearly three in 10 (28%) of healthcare HR professionals are unaware of the benefits their staff need, while most (70%) of staff said benefits packages are important or very important when considering a job offer. The majority (80%) of employees also said they were more loyal towards their employer when they feel supported, while 78% are more motivated to work when their employer is supporting them.
When asked about the most financial beneficial benefits, one in five (20%) of employees cited subsidised food and drink, with more than a quarter (27%) believing it should be included in a standard package.
Jamie Mackenzie, director at Sodexo Engage, said: “Healthcare workers clearly know what benefits they want, but it appears that they are not fully making use of what is on offer to them. Our research highlights a strong emphasis on tools that enhance financial wellbeing, indicating that the cost-of-living crisis is a prominent concern for many. However, with numerous individuals reporting a lack of utilisation, I would urge them to explore the benefits their employers provide and consider how these can help.”
