Mental Health Foundation Findings: According to the Mental Health Foundation, mental health problems in the UK workforce cost employers up to £45 billion each year. This includes costs from absenteeism, presenteeism (working while sick), and staff turnover.
Deloitte's 2020 Report: A significant report by Deloitte on mental health in the workplace found that the average return on investment (ROI) for mental health interventions in the UK is overwhelmingly positive, with an average ROI of £5 for every £1 spent. The range of ROI varied across case studies from £0.40 to £9.00.
Mind’s Workplace Wellbeing Index: Mind, a leading mental health charity in the UK, runs a Workplace Wellbeing Index that helps employers assess and improve their approach to mental health. Their research indicates that 56% of employers said they would like to do more to improve staff well-being but don't feel they have the right training or guidance.
Thrive at Work Wellbeing Programme: A study conducted on the "Thrive at Work" wellbeing programme, which included interventions in Midlands-based SMEs, suggested positive outcomes in terms of mental health and work engagement, although specific ROI figures were not provided.
Reduced Absenteeism and Turnover: The CIPD (Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development) has reported on the importance of mental health support in the workplace, noting that effective mental health strategies can lead to reduced absenteeism and turnover, which are significant costs for UK businesses.
Health and Safety Executive (HSE) Statistics: According to the HSE, 12.8 million working days were lost due to work-related stress, depression, or anxiety in 2018/19, highlighting the impact of not addressing mental health issues in the workplace.
These statistics and findings from various respected bodies in the UK underscore the importance and financial logic behind investing in workplace mental health support and counseling. It's evident that aside from fostering a healthier and more inclusive work environment, such investments can lead to substantial financial returns for businesses through improved employee well-being, productivity, and retention.