Matthew McSweeney, HR Consultant at Advo, takes a closer look, and gives practical advice, on employee well-being and its importance within organisations.

At Advo, we are regularly asked by employers about supporting employee mental health and overall team well-being and in recent years, these conversations have increased significantly. As the holiday period ends, the school term begins, and the nights draw in, the balance between work and home life can become particularly challenging for many employees.

Across the UK, the conversation around employee well-being has shifted dramatically. It is recognised that was once on the sidelines is now central to the workplace agenda. Mental, physical, and financial well-being have gained huge importance, particularly since the COVID-19 pandemic. “Well-being” is no longer just a buzzword for boardrooms or engagement days; it has become a critical business issue for both employers and employees.

Well-being starts much earlier than day one of employment. Policymakers, recruiters, and business leaders are now much more focused on creating positive employee experiences that attract and retain motivated, engaged, and supported workforces.

However, alongside progress, there are still challenges. In recent years, employment tribunal claims linked to workplace well-being have risen sharply. One of the most common areas relates to disability discrimination, particularly cases where employees with mental health conditions such as anxiety or depression allege that their employer has failed to make reasonable adjustments. For example, in 2023, a tribunal found in favour of an employee after their employer did not act on disclosed mental health needs, reinforcing the precedent that mental health must be supported as robustly as physical health.

Many organisations have embraced well-being programmes ranging from broad employee benefits packages to specific initiatives such as stress management, mindfulness, and financial well-being workshops. But well-being is not only about structured programmes, often there are outside pressures in people’s lives that require support, and in these situations, support from the organisation and the behaviour of managers is absolutely vital.

The way employees are treated day-to-day makes a significant difference. Something as simple as a manager greeting everyone with a smile and being approachable can go a long way in making people feel valued and supported. Equally, ensuring that working hours are managed properly and that employees are encouraged to take regular breaks can be extremely helpful in preventing burnout.

Managers also play an important role in noticing when someone doesn’t quite seem themselves. Encouraging a safe space where employees can open up about what they are going through can be incredibly supportive. Conversely, unresolved workplace conflict can be highly stressful, undermining both well-being and productivity. Creating a culture where openness, respect, and understanding are at the forefront is essential for maintaining a healthy and motivated workforce.

Research consistently shows that creating and maintaining a healthy work-life balance is crucial to protecting both physical and mental health. At Advo, we always recommend encouraging employees to look after themselves, as balancing work with personal life delivers benefits not only to individuals but also to businesses. This approach reduces absenteeism, boosts morale, raises productivity, and fosters a positive workplace culture.

Advo also works in partnership with Shop St., an amazing and completely free benefit available to all Advo HR and Payroll client’s employee’s that may support financial wellbeing. Shop St. is a mobile app that allows employees to pay in-store or online, saving them approximately £25–£40 per month, tax-free. It integrates seamlessly with existing loyalty schemes, covering a wide range of major brands — from Amazon, Airbnb, and Uber to supermarkets, coffee shops, and takeaway chains.

This is just one of the ways Advo help our clients go beyond policies to deliver practical, everyday support that makes a real difference to employees’ financial well-being and we are always available to assist businesses in any way we can.