Why Offer Workplace Health Checks?
Offering workplace health checks can help employers to reduce sickness-related costs in multiple ways. By early detection and intervention will prevent worsening illness, reducing absence, improving morale and retention and lowering the turnover of staff.
Estimated Cost of Sickness to UK Employers and the Economy
A report by the Institute for Public Policy Research (IPPR) found that the total “hidden cost” of employee sickness in the UK has risen from around £73 billion to £103 billion annually (2018 → ~2023). Most of this (£25 billion of the rise) is attributable to presenteeism (people working while unwell), while a smaller portion comes from increased sick days.
Cost of Long‑term Sickness Absences
One estimate says long‑term sickness leave cost UK employers £21 billion in the past 12 months.
Long‑term sickness absence is reported to account for over half of all working time lost due to ill health
Medway Council’s programme, (2024) argues that for every £1 spent on healthy workplace initiatives, businesses can benefit by between £2 and £32 in terms of reduced sickness, turnover, and improved productivity.
Workplace health checks are one of the levers to reduce that cost.
1. Personalised Onsite Health Check Appointments
Tailored to your workforce and on an individual basis. This service is invaluable to help support a healthy workplace and give your employees to talk openly about their health in a private and confidential setting.
2. Speak with a Health-care Professional
Have the opportunity to discuss underlying health conditions, past medical history and any concerns with a nurse. Receive advice and be signposted to the appropriate specialty if deemed necessary.
3. Improve Staff Morale
Offering workplace health checks is an effective and positive step which demonstrates the employee’s wellbeing is cared for. Healthy and well-supported employees are likely to be more motivated and engaged.
4. Why Early Detection of Health Conditions are so Important
Identifying risk factors (e.g. high blood pressure, cholesterol, poor musculoskeletal health, stress and obesity) in the early stages allows intervention before they lead to long-term chronic illness.
5. Health Screening and Primary Prevention
With a focus on lifestyle choices such as avoiding smoking, having a balanced diet and taking regular exercise and taking the necessary vaccines to build immunity, will help reduce the risk of chronic conditions. Preventing illnesses tends to be less expensive than treating them later when they become more severe.
6. Reducing Absence in the Workplace
By supporting employees (e.g. adjustments, health advice) you can reduce the number of days off sick.
7. Reducing Presenteeism
This is when people come to work but are less productive because of ill health. Health checks can help identify causes of reduced performance and mitigate them (e.g. poor sleep, chronic conditions).
8. Reduced Staff Turnover, Recruitment and Training Costs
Healthier workers are more likely to stay; fewer staff leaving means less hiring and training costs. When employees are healthier, they experience increased stamina and resilience, leading to higher productivity and fewer sick days due to improved physical and mental well-being.
9. Reducing Insurance, Compensation, Disability or Long‐term Sickness Costs
Detecting issues early, providing support, may reduce long‐term disability claims or long‐term absence costs to the employer.
10. Improving Staff Engagement and a Positive Workplace Culture
Healthy employees tend to feel more valued, which can improve retention, commitment and reduce stress levels etc.