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UK business travellers say employer could do more to ensure safety

UK business travellers say employer could do more to ensure safety

Six in ten (60%) UK business travellers believe their employer could do more to ensure their safety while travelling for work, according to a new Opinium survey of 500 business travellers, commissioned by World Travel Protection.

Younger employees are significantly more likely to feel that employers could do more to keep them safe, with 63% of under-34s agreeing, compared to just 31% of over-55s.

More than two-thirds (69%) of respondents said they would decline a business trip if they did not feel confident that their employer was prioritising their safety and wellbeing; and 60% would consider leaving their job if they felt their travel safety was being taken seriously.

When it comes to support during travel, 64% want their employer to check in on them more frequently, rising to 73% of under-34s compared to just 40% of over-55s.

However, only 16% of business travellers said they had no support from their employer for a work trip. The assistance they received included:

  • 24/7 emergency helpline (30%)
  • Pre-travel briefing on key risks and cultural norms (25%)
  • Regular check-ins to ensure their safety and comfort (25%)
  • Government-issued advisories (24%)
  • Access to a travel risk management company for medical or security issues (23%)
  • Tailored advice based on their itinerary (23%)
  • Travel risk app with live alerts and access to support (21%)

Kate Fitzpatrick, Security Director, EMEA, at World Travel Protection, said: “Travel preparation is absolutely vital. Travellers need thorough pre-trip briefings, clear guidance on local risks, and the reassurance of knowing exactly where to turn for support while away. International travel always carries an element of risk, and insurance only kicks in after something has gone wrong.  It doesn’t help you avoid medical and security risks before they happen or support your people in their moment of need."

“That’s why it’s not enough to take a reactive approach,” continued Fitzpatrick. “Employers must show their people that they are actively protected throughout the journey. Partnering with a travel risk management company like World Travel Protection eliminates gaps in travel coverage, care, and intelligence – ensuring employees have 24/7 access to real-time security and health information, along with a global network of trusted medical and security experts.”

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