Whose job is it to keep you well?

In Singapore, the government is actively promoting healthy lifestyles not just at home but in the workplace. More and more companies are rolling out perks and wellness programmes for their employees to keep them motivated and healthy, both emotionally and physically. Can they really make a difference in your company? We asked the team at Pacific Prime Singapore to explain some examples of popular programmes, their benefits and how best to make them work.

What are some popular workplace wellness programmes?

Little steps can go a long way to boosting employees’ allegiance to a company.

On-site fitness centres

A fitness centre offers the opportunity for staff to exercise at their convenience. Whether this is a feasible option will of course depend on the company size and budget. But it doesn’t always have to be an enormous space with bells and whistles such as a swimming pool and climbing wall. In most cases, a simple gym room with basic equipment is sufficient.

Healthy diet programmes

If staff are struggling with weight issues, a company can consider offering healthy meal options. Office workers can lead hectic lives, and sometimes it’s easy to forget that all-important motto: ‘You are what you eat’. If sponsoring meals sounds too pricey, companies can top up the pantry with fresh fruit or other healthy snacks, or hold nutrition seminars to raise awareness on healthy eating.

Stress reduction programmes

Let’s face it, every job comes with its own pressures. The main problem, though, is that not everyone is able to handle these pressures properly. Emotional wellness is as important as physical wellbeing; so, deep-breathing exercises, yoga classes and even mental health education resources can all help to create a low-stress working environment.

What are the benefits?

Traditional businesses tend to emphasise monetary incentives, but research increasingly shows that having perks like workplace wellness in place actually helps businesses in a number of ways.

Increase in productivity

It goes without saying that employees tend to work harder for the company and stay more focused on their work if their employer shows concern for their well-being. 

Lower healthcare costs

Employees are less likely to fall sick since the programme is beneficial to their overall wellbeing, including health. The less frequently employees visit the doctor, the less likely insurers will raise their premiums dramatically.

Boost in business profits

Productivity comes hand in hand with business profits. The turnover rate will be lower so HR managers can spend less time on recruitment. A team of experienced staff working like a well-oiled machine is an invaluable asset which cannot be bought with money. It also helps to attract more talent and build a positive brand image for the company.

What affects the effectiveness of a wellness programme?

There’s no such thing as a one-size-fits-all plan when it comes to workplace wellness programmes. But there are some criteria that may have an impact on whether they work or not.

Peer effects

Studies have shown that staff members have seven times more motivation when they participate in wellness programmes in groups. This is very natural as people tend to feel more engaged when they have company.

The physical design of the workplace matters

Again, we’re not saying that your company will need to overhaul your office, but tiny adjustments can make a huge difference. For example, offering adjustable desks so that employees can stand while working. The rule of thumb here is to make it easy for employees to change their behaviour and build healthier habits.

Cater to your staff

Every company has a different size and pool of staff, so it’s crucial for companies to customise programmes to meet their employees’ needs. It helps to find out their opinions and goals before jumping in. Having said all that, these programmes will be little more than empty slogans if the company doesn’t pair them with an authentic wellness culture that fosters work-life balance. There’s little point in purchasing treadmills and massage chairs when staff don’t even have time to go to the washroom! Wellness programmes function much better as part of a holistic employee benefits plan.

Need some help to get started? The team at Pacific Prime Singapore can assist companies in selecting and structuring an employee benefits plan and insurance policy to cater to its needs and budget.

Written in collaboration with:

Pacific Prime Singapore
18 Cross Street, China Square Central, #14-05
6346 3781 | pacificprime.sg

Read more about living in Singapore:
Do I need employee health insurance for my small business?
Starting a new company? We talk business insurance

Lindsay Yap

Living in Singapore all her life, Lindsay loves finding out what's on and fun around town. Besides binge-watching sitcoms and pigging out on her favourite hawker food, she enjoys exploring new places and is constantly adding to her travel wish list!