Management Consulting

Aon identified a significant issue in the UK regarding mental health in the workplace, particularly exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Research indicated that at least half a million more individuals were experiencing poor mental health, with 70% of employers lacking a dedicated wellbeing budget. Furthermore, only 8% of employers invested more than £126 per employee annually in health and wellbeing programs, and 44% did not provide mental health awareness training. This highlighted a critical gap in support for employees, particularly as the pandemic had disrupted mental health services in 93% of countries. In response, Aon published a report titled "The Mental Health Crisis: Supporting Employees Through Turbulent Times," which outlined actionable strategies for employers to enhance mental wellbeing in their organizations. The report emphasized the need for employers to proactively address mental health issues by implementing comprehensive wellbeing strategies, including stress risk assessments to identify root causes of work-related stress, depression, and anxiety. Aon also advocated for training programs for managers to equip them with the skills necessary to support their teams effectively. The tailored solution included the launch of Aon’s mental health calculator, which helps organizations quantify the financial impact of poor mental health and the potential benefits of investing in employee wellbeing. Aon's 2021 Global Wellbeing Survey further demonstrated that improvements in employee wellbeing correlate with enhanced customer satisfaction and retention, reinforcing the importance of a cohesive wellbeing strategy over isolated initiatives. As a result of these efforts, Aon aims to foster a culture where employees feel comfortable seeking support, thereby reducing stigma and improving overall mental health outcomes in the workplace. The initiative not only addresses immediate mental health concerns but also positions employers to build a more resilient workforce capable of navigating future challenges.