This World Health Day, People Matters takes a have a look at the significance of healthy and happy employees as a enterprise crucial, and the way organisations have upgraded their strategy to caring for the psychological and bodily well-being of their employees.

Initiatives to enhance well being embody a complete help system, together with bodily and psychological well-being periods, monetary wellness packages, and top-tier insurance coverage protection for unexpected medical wants for workers and their speedy relations. Fitness periods like Yoga or Zumba, wellness packages, nameless help channels for workers to deal with challenges and grievances with none concern or judgment, and household gatherings for workers to introduce their households to their colleagues as effectively, vital reductions on lab assessments, health plans, physician consultations, doorstep supply of medicines, and rather more are among the initiatives firms have taken to advertise the well-being of their workers.

Some firms have even broadened their focus to incorporate sleep well being as effectively. Last 12 months, Bengaluru-based startup Wakefit launched a devoted nap time from 2:00 to 2:30 p.m. beneath its ‘Right to Nap’ initiative, advocating the advantages of brief rests. The rationale behind this shift is that wellness impacts not solely particular person job satisfaction and efficiency but additionally considerably impacts the broader organisational morale, productiveness, and effectiveness.

According to Umanath Nayak, HR Head at Wakefit.co The ‘Right to Nap’ coverage has had constructive outcomes. “This initiative has not only enhanced our team’s performance but has also contributed to a more motivated and content workforce,” Umanath stated concerning the end result.

Here are another methods through which trade leaders are caring for their workers.

 “Health and wellness are foundational pillars for our team members’ success, driving optimal performance and productivity,” says Santosh T K, Talent Acquisition Head, India, Dell Technologies.

“Prioritising personal well-being fosters a conducive environment for sustained professional growth. Our employees are offered limitless opportunities, flexibility, and an inclusive culture, where they can be their true selves at work. Empathy and consideration for employees’ wellbeing have gained a lot of traction due to the toll the pandemic has taken on an individual’s mental health,” says Santosh.

Recognising the facility of flexibility in shaping a balanced life, Amaway embraced a hybrid work mannequin and versatile hours, empowering workers to navigate their schedules with ease. “For employees at our manufacturing unit, we’re creating more flexibility around shifts and a greater emphasis on work-life balance,” says Ritika Malik, Vice President, HR, Amway India.

While there are a lot of methods devised for expertise attraction and retention, says Dinesh Menon, Founders’ Office – Strategy, Investor Relations & People, Onsurity, the new-age workforce is interested in organisations that prioritise worker well being and general well-being.

“Today, employees are not just looking at insurance. They expect more futuristic plans. Benefits such as coverage for egg freezing, critical illness, loss of pay due to health conditions etc., is something that are actively seeking. Comprehensive health and wellness benefits have a lasting effect on job seekers as well as existing employees, thus making attraction and retention of talent a seamless process. Employees stay longer with a company that truly values their well-being,” provides Dinesh.

 Initiatives for bodily health

During the pandemic, says Santosh, leaders at Dell have been very cognisant of the truth that “staying home” poses its personal set of challenges—certainly one of which is the flexibility and motivation to remain match. “Recognising this need, we have set up a wellness hub where we are building excitement and running a “steps challenge” amongst different programmes the place workers have a chance to compete with and towards friends the world over and monitor progress in real-time.”

Understanding the significance of psychological and bodily well being, Dell is providing an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) by way of its associate who offers skilled counselling providers. “We also have ‘Dell Wellness Hub’ that has been continuously supporting our team members’ wellness journey including their mental health, physical wellbeing, and financial wellness. Along with wellness, maintaining a proper personal and professional balance is also a key pillar for Dell Technologies’ people philosophy. And as part of the Global Balance Campaign, we continue to invest in our team members, with wellness resources that help them feel their best. Through comprehensive wellness programs, including access to mental health resources, fitness initiatives, and health screenings, we are focused on the holistic well-being of our teams.”

Role of HR in wellness initiative

The HR people have a essential position in implementing wellness initiatives, believes Ritika.  “Fostering a supportive work culture, providing resources for physical and mental health, and advocating for policies that prioritise employee well-being to attract and retain talent effectively are the key priorities for HR leaders are the key responsibilities of HR leaders.”

According to Ritika, investing in worker well being and well-being isn’t just a dedication however a cornerstone of organisational ethos.

The Human Resource (HR) division performs a pivotal position in selling and defending the well being of workers inside an organisation. As per a report, an alarming 43% of Indian tech employees encounter well being points straight linked to their job tasks. Additionally, the research signifies that these well being points transcend bodily illnesses, with virtually 45% of respondents going through psychological well being challenges like stress, anxiousness, and despair.

Samra Rehman, Head of People and Culture, Hero Vired says that HR leaders are liable for establishing insurance policies and packages that prioritise worker well-being, similar to implementing medical insurance plans, providing fitness center memberships or health courses, and organising wellness workshops. “HR also fosters a supportive culture by addressing issues affecting mental health, facilitating open communication, and providing resources for stress management. In short, the HR department should serve as a beacon of support, ensuring employees feel valued and empowered to prioritise their health,” provides Samra.

An asset to organisation’s success

Manish Anandani, MD of Kenvue India, believes that when workers are empowered to prioritise their well being and well-being, they’re higher geared up to contribute meaningfully to the organisation’s success.

According to Anandani, their Global Wellbeing reimbursement is one such coverage that permits workers to pursue actions of their alternative specializing in wholesome consuming, wholesome motion, and emotional well-being to personalise their strategy to well being.

Supporting workers at a person degree, says Anandani, permits your complete staff to create a totally engaged and performing workforce.

Common challenges to maintain a glance out for

Stress, lack of work-life stability, sedentary life-style, resulting in well being issues like again ache, weight problems, and cardiovascular points, and poor psychological well being are among the frequent well being challenges workers could face within the office. A latest survey by Great Place To Work India revealed that one in 4 Indian workers discover it difficult to talk up about stress, burnout, anxiousness, or despair with out fearing judgement.

“HR leaders can address these challenges by creating conducive and productive work culture, flexible work schedules, and implementing systems for holistic health. They should also foster a culture where employees feel comfortable discussing their concerns and accessing support resources, such as counselling services and employee assistance programs. By proactively addressing these challenges, HR leaders can promote a healthier and more efficient workforce,” explains Samra.