Bringing Wellbeing into the Workplace

Sam Lathey explains that while employee wellbeing surveys can inform budget and benefit decisions, their success depends on good design and corroboration with other data sources. To avoid pitfalls like stigma, poor question design, and recency bias, organizations should create psychologically safe environments, use relative questioning, and supplement survey insights with regular wellbeing checks and additional internal data. By following these guidelines, employers can make informed decisions that truly support their workforce.

Dr. Eidn Mahmoudzadeh emphasizes the overlooked impact of sleep problems on employee wellbeing and productivity. Sleep deprivation costs the UK £40 billion annually, with shift workers especially affected. Employers can address this by promoting sleep awareness, providing tailored support, and empowering HR and wellbeing teams with the right tools and training. Small steps, such as sleep education and organizational changes, can significantly improve health, reduce sickness-related costs, and enhance workplace performance.