By Palvinder Deol, GPhC-registered Superintendent Pharmacist
In the modern workplace, productivity and performance often take centre stage, but behind every successful business is a healthy, motivated team. Over my 25 years as a pharmacist, I have seen first-hand how small, proactive steps towards employee wellbeing can yield significant results for both individuals and organisations.
The Link Between Health and Productivity
Poor health is one of the leading causes of absenteeism in the UK. According to the Office for National Statistics, UK workers lost 185.6 million working days to sickness or injury in 2022, the highest level since records began. While some absences are unavoidable, many can be reduced with preventive health measures, early interventions, and better workplace support.
A healthy employee is more focused, more engaged, and less likely to take prolonged periods off work. Beyond reducing absence rates, good health improves cognitive performance, mood, and creativity. These are all essential ingredients for business success.
Practical Wellness Strategies for Businesses
- Encourage Preventive Health Checks
Regular screenings for blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar can identify early signs of chronic conditions. By catching these issues early, employees can take action before they affect their work and wellbeing. - Promote Healthy Lifestyle Choices
Providing access to fresh fruit, offering cycle-to-work schemes, or organising lunchtime walking groups are simple, cost-effective ways to encourage better habits. - Support Mental Wellbeing
Stress and burnout have become increasingly common in high-pressure work environments. Employers can help by offering access to counselling services, promoting regular breaks, and fostering a culture where employees feel comfortable discussing mental health. - Offer Flexible Working Where Possible
Flexibility can reduce stress and improve work-life balance. This can lead to a happier and more loyal workforce.
The Role of Online Pharmacies in Workplace Health
As more healthcare services move online, businesses have an opportunity to connect employees with fast, discreet, and professional support. For example, at Happy Pharmacy, we provide a fully regulated UK-based service offering prescription treatments, expert pharmacist advice, and convenient home delivery. This not only saves employees time but also ensures they receive safe and effective care without long waits.
A Win-Win Investment
Workplace wellness is not just a “nice-to-have”. It is a strategic investment. Studies have shown that for every £1 spent on employee wellbeing, employers can see a return of more than £4 through increased productivity, reduced absenteeism, and improved staff retention.
In today’s competitive business landscape, attracting and keeping top talent is about more than just salary. By actively supporting health and wellbeing, companies send a clear message: “We value you as a person, not just as an employee.” That is a message that resonates and one that can set your business apart.
I’m Laura Wilson, a passionate blogger and content creator with a deep interest in business, finance, and entrepreneurship. I’ve had the opportunity to write for several premium blogs, sharing insights & practical advice for individuals & small businesses. I’m the founder and publisher of ukbusinessmag.co.uk, where I focus on creating valuable, easy-to-understand content to help UK startups & SMEs grow.
