Research calls for more wellbeing programmes for finance workers

A study from recruitment agency Robert Half UK has shown the nation’s finance workers need more access to wellbeing programmes.

According to the study, 78 per cent of chief financial officers believe stress levels in the workplace will increase by 2020, whilst 16 per cent think there will be no change.

Expectations

Chief financial officers revealed the factors that they believe will contribute to an increase in stress levels. More than half (51 per cent) cite greater workloads, followed by increased business expectations (49 per cent) and not having enough staff (40 per cent).

The research highlighted the need for more policies and programmes to help reduce stress for finance workers. Only 34 per cent of finance departments discuss health and wellness on a regular basis. Seven per cent do not talk about health or wellbeing at all, whilst 59 per cent discuss it occasionally.

Some firms were found to be taking action to tackle stress, with more than 50 per cent offering flexible working and 44 per cent introducing an employee wellness scheme.

Support

Robert Half UK Director Matt Weston said that in the run-up to the financial year-end, businesses must remember that tired, stressed, and unhappy members of staff result in an unproductive and less efficient workforce.

He went on to advise employers to be on the front foot by hiring temporary support, such as additional credit controllers, purchase ledger clerks, and financial/management accountants, as this can have a positive effect on the stress levels of existing employees.