New tech key to supporting employee wellbeing

Employee wellbeing is not a new phenomenon – in fact, it has been a hot topic for some time. But, employers are only now truly focusing on tangible actions to support their employees’ wellbeing, notes a Personnel Today report. It says its new research reveals that the most important priorities for HR teams in 2019 are to support employee health and wellbeing (52%) and attract and retain key talent (56%). So it is no surprise that employers are implementing new technology to keep their employees healthy and happy. Employers today recognise that technology to support employee wellbeing, such as apps and wearables, not only improves the employee experience but also helps to achieve business objectives. Examples, notes the report, range from implementing virtual GP services to offering onsite health checks, wearables with pedometers, and even allowing employees to work remotely. Healthier, happier employees are more likely to stay at the company longer, take advantage of the benefits on offer and take less sick leave. When it comes to wearables, there has been a significant rise in the use of everyday devices such as Fitbits and Apple Watches – and these are set to grow exponentially to 1.1bn worldwide by 2022.