Mental health will top the list of support most demanded by employees in 2024, according to new research from Towergate Health & Protection.

DEJI Digital, a subsidiary of UK-based talent firm Green Park focused on creating diverse and equitable workplaces, disclosed that two-thirds of UK employees report the absence of anti-discrimination and anti-harassment policies at their workplace.

Data released this month by the MRI Software has claimed that hybrid working is “here to stay.” The research shows that more than 50% of employees worked from home for at least part of the week last year with an average of 60% of people regularly working at home for at least part of the week since February 2023.

In late 2023, stark findings from a survey commissioned by the Chartered Institute of Personal Development (CIPD) found that sick leave hit a 10-year high in the UK and stress was reported as the biggest contributor.

While worrying UK tech skills shortage headlines continue to dominate the news agenda, a survey* released today reveals that a fractured recruitment process is hindering businesses' access to the right tech talent; 74% of businesses are failing to complete any relevant testing and a further 32% are relying on non-technical specialists to hire tech talent.
 

With 2023 at an end, businesses face a future fraught with challenges. Indeed, thinktanks predict that current hurdles – such as supply-chain disruptions, a volatile economy, and an enduring skills crisis – are likely to persist well into 2024, making staff retention a critical priority.

It can be hard for many parents to juggle their home and work life as well as the numerous unplanned and ad-hoc events and tasks, which can lead to feelings of stress, anxiety and being overwhelmed.

In 2024, employers are being urged to extend their support to employees who have hidden or invisible disabilities, with FDM Group, a company dedicated to bridging the gap between individuals and technology, offering six key tips to facilitate this.

While the festive period is typically associated with joy and celebration, the start of the year is marked by the ‘January blues.’

Towergate Health & Protection is encouraging employers on Blue Monday to transform this typically negative day into a positive opportunity.

January is a pivotal month for many employees as they evaluate their life and career choices, often impacting their mental wellbeing. GRiD, the industry body for group risk, highlights that Blue Monday serves as a critical time for employers to show awareness and actively support their staff's mental health.

A first-of-its-kind experiment by Intuit QuickBooks has shed light on the impact of Self Assessment on the health of UK small business owners.

A recent survey conducted by the international recruitment firm, Robert Walters, has revealed that that 55% of professionals believe their employers should intensify efforts in supporting employee wellbeing.

Cyril Samovsky, Founder, Mobilunity, looks at the challenges tech startups face when onboarding new hires, why it’s critical to shorten onboarding periods, and how to improve onboarding strategies to enhance efficiency and minimise productivity disruption.

Cost-effectiveness and adaptability are key priorities for employers when establishing a health and wellbeing support programme, as indicated by research from Towergate Health & Protection.

Reality: The idea do-it-yourself (DIY) contracts can save time and money is a common misconception among business owners and entrepreneurs. While the intent to cut costs and streamline processes is understandable, the reality is creating your contracts without legal expertise can lead to various risks and complications.

When you hire someone, it’s because you believe that they have the skills and experience to do the job well. That, and you think that they’ll be a good match for the company culture.

Chris Spillman of Biztech Lawyers explains the legal matters that startups need to address.

Flexa, the platform known for connecting flexible companies, has released its latest Flexible Working Index, analysing data from 2023 to forecast significant work trends for 2024.

Twenty-one percent of employers express concerns about employees living with long-term chronic illnesses, such as diabetes, cancer, or multiple sclerosis, according to a study commissioned by GRiD, the group risk sector's industry body.