WHAT ARE THE 5 PILLARS OF WELLBEING – AND HOW TO SUPPORT YOUR EMPLOYEES?

In today’s fast-paced and often high-pressure work environment, employee wellbeing is no longer a “nice to have” – it’s a business necessity. Companies that prioritise wellbeing reap the benefits of higher productivity, increased employee engagement, and improved retention rates. But true workplace wellbeing goes beyond surface-level perks like free coffee or occasional team lunches. It requires a holistic approach that addresses all aspects of an individual’s health and happiness. Enter the 5 Pillars of Wellbeing.

These five pillars provide a comprehensive framework for supporting your workforce in a way that promotes long-term health and job satisfaction. Let’s explore what they are and how you can integrate them into your workplace culture.

1. Physical Wellbeing

The foundation of overall wellbeing starts with physical health. When employees are physically healthy, they’re more energetic, focused, and resilient.

Ways to promote Physical Wellbeing:

• Promote Regular Exercise: Offer gym subsidies, on-site fitness classes (such as our yoga, Pilates or HIIT classes), or encourage walking meetings.

• Provide Healthy Options: Stock your workplace with nutritious snacks and organize wellness challenges focused on healthy habits.

• Ergonomic Workspaces: Invest in ergonomic chairs, desks, and equipment to prevent physical strain and discomfort.

2. Mental Wellbeing

We should all be aware by now that mental health is just as important as physical health. Staff with strong mental wellbeing are better equipped to manage stress, stay productive, and maintain a positive outlook.

How to Support Mental Wellbeing:

• Mental Health Resources: Provide access to counselling services or Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs), as well as Mental Health workshops and trainings. See our Mental Health at Work offerings here.

• Mindfulness and Meditation: Host sessions on mindfulness, meditation, or stress management techniques.

• Open Culture: Foster an environment where employees feel comfortable discussing mental health and seeking help.

3. Social Wellbeing

Humans are social beings, and fostering connections at work plays a crucial role in overall happiness. Social wellbeing helps employees feel part of a community, which in turn boosts morale and collaboration.

Ideas to support Social Wellbeing:

• Team Building Activities: Organise regular social events, whether it’s team lunches, outings, or virtual meet-ups for remote teams.

• Inclusive Culture: Encourage diversity and inclusion initiatives to ensure every employee feels valued and connected. You may want to check out our Diversity and Inclusion workshops here.

• Recognition and Appreciation: Celebrate achievements and milestones to strengthen team bonds.

4. Financial Wellbeing

It comes as no surprise that financial stress can have a significant impact on an employee’s mental and physical health. Supporting financial wellbeing helps employees feel more secure and less stressed. In fact, 10% of UK adults report feeling hopeless, 34% feel anxious and 29% feel stressed over their finances. (Source)

Financial Wellbeing tips and resources:

• Financial Education: Offer financial wellbeing workshops on budgeting, saving, and retirement planning.

• Competitive Pay and Benefits: Regularly review compensation to ensure it’s fair and aligned with industry standards.

• Flexible Benefits: Provide options like commuter benefits, childcare assistance, or student loan support.

5. Purpose and Career Wellbeing

Many employees want to feel that their work is meaningful and that they’re growing professionally. As the fifth and final of our pillars of wellbeing, purpose and career wellbeing are essential for long-term job satisfaction and engagement.

Ways to foster Purpose and Career Wellbeing:

• Clear Growth Paths: Offer training, mentorship, and clear opportunities for career advancement.

• Role Alignment: Ensure employees are in roles that align with their strengths and interests.

• Meaningful Work: Communicate how their work contributes to the company’s mission and broader impact.

Why the Pillars of Wellbeing Matter

Addressing all five pillars of wellbeing ensures a holistic approach to employee health and happiness. By implementing strategies that support these pillars, organisations can foster a thriving, resilient workforce. Not only does this benefit employees, but it also leads to a more successful and sustainable business.

Ready to support your employees’ wellbeing? Start building your strategy around these five pillars of wellbeing today. Head to our Services page here, or drop us a line to arrange a time we can discuss in more detail.