The UK’s ill-health employment gap is a growing challenge for businesses. Research from the Institute for Employment Studies (2025) reveals that one in five (21%) of UK workers report health limitations. This gap, particularly prevalent among younger and older workers, results in missed opportunities, higher absenteeism, and lower employee productivity. Addressing the issue isn’t just a social responsibility—it’s a business imperative.

In this article, we’ll explore how employers can close the ill-health employment gap through proactive wellbeing strategies, highlighting the importance of supporting employees with diverse health conditions. One key factor that is often overlooked when addressing this issue is how ergonomics and holistic employee wellbeing contribute to creating an inclusive and productive workforce.

The Impact of Health and Wellbeing on Workplace Performance

Companies that fail to support employees with health conditions risk higher turnover rates, reduced engagement, and increased sickness absences. However, those who prioritise employee health and wellbeing benefit from stronger retention, higher productivity, and a more inclusive company culture. This is where services like health and wellbeing resources, DSE workstation assessments, musculoskeletal health training, and holistic wellbeing workshops can make a significant difference.

By investing in comprehensive wellbeing strategies—such as ergonomic interventions and tailored wellbeing programs—organisations can improve both physical and mental health, supporting employees to remain productive and engaged. These interventions go beyond compliance with health and safety regulations; they create environments where all employees, regardless of health conditions, can thrive.

How Ergonix Can Help Close the Ill-Health Gap

At Ergonix, we specialise in promoting employee health and wellbeing through a range of services designed to build healthier, more inclusive workplaces. From employee wellbeing content to tailored workshops, DSE workstation assessments, and accredited DSE assessor courses, we address a wide range of health needs, including musculoskeletal health, mental wellbeing, and ergonomics. Our goal is to help businesses support their employees effectively and foster a positive workplace culture.

Here’s how our services can support your efforts to close the ill-health employment gap:

  1. Employee Wellbeing Content (Wellbeing Hub): We provide organisations with accessible, evidence-based, engaging health and wellbeing content through our dedicated Wellbeing Hub. This hub offers a variety of resources that focus on mental and physical health, ergonomic practices, and overall employee wellness.
  2. Wellbeing Workshops: Our holistic workshops focus on managing physical and mental health, posture, and ergonomics. These workshops are key to improving employee productivity, reducing the impact of long-term health conditions, and promoting overall wellbeing.
  3. DSE Workstation Assessments: We help organisations identify and address ergonomic risks, ensuring that employees with health conditions receive the support they need to perform their tasks comfortably and without pain. Our assessments aim to reduce the risk of workplace injuries and enhance employee comfort.
  4. Accredited DSE Workstation Assessor Courses: We offer CIEHF-accredited training for individuals looking to become qualified DSE assessors. This enables organisations to equip their teams with the skills needed to perform effective workstation assessments and implement long-term ergonomic solutions in the workplace.
  5. Support with Remote and Hybrid Working: As flexible work arrangements become more common, we provide training and ergonomic solutions to help employees set up productive and comfortable home offices. This ensures that remote workers remain engaged, healthy, and supported while working outside the traditional office environment.
The Business Case for Supporting Employee Wellbeing

Supporting employee wellbeing isn’t just the right thing to do—it’s good for business. Companies that invest in wellbeing initiatives see:

  • Reduced absenteeism due to fewer preventable health-related issues.
  • Higher retention rates as employees feel valued and supported.
  • Enhanced productivity and engagement from a healthier, more motivated workforce.
  • Stronger employer reputation as an inclusive and supportive organisation.

By implementing inclusive HR strategies and wellbeing support, businesses can tap into a wealth of untapped potential, build a resilient workforce, and gain a competitive advantage in the marketplace.

References:

Institute for Employment Studies (IES) (2025) Work and health: international comparisons with the UK. A report for the Commission for Healthier Working Lives.

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