It’s Men’s health week 2022. And undoubtedly, time we removed the “man up” way of thinking from our society. Furthermore, we need to start taking men’s health more seriously. Men’s Health Week is officially coined from menshealthforum.org.uk, the theme for 2022 is Time for your MOT.
Todays UK statistics
Did you know, that in the UK today [1];
- 1 in 5 men die before the age of 65
- 67% of men are considered overweight or obese
- 4 out of 5 suicide victims are male
According to estimates, half of all premature male deaths are preventable [2]. Shocking, isn’t it?
What can employers do?
Employers, have you considered the benefits you offer to your staff? And subsequently, how they can be best utilised to help employees through tough times? According to recent research, young men are more likely to put off asking for help when they feel they need it. As a result, having employee benefits in place can matter so much, for ease of access.
You may already be offering your employees health and wellbeing benefits. However, do they know they’re there?
If you don’t have them, there has never been a better time to consider your options.
Men are dying too young
Even today with the major advancements that have been made in the research. Not to mention, prevention, treatment, and cures of many different diseases. Far too many men are dying too young.
Statistically:
- 1 in 8 men in the UK & Europe are affected by prostate cancer – only two thirds of these cases are detected early! [3]
- 44% of men do not know how to check their testicles properly. [3]
- In the UK, 1 in 8 men die from coronary heart disease, compared to 1 in 15 women [4]
Raising awareness
Encouraging communication, and offering confidential ways of seeking help and support are vital when trying to help improve these statistics. By implementing a simple yet effective solution such as an Employee Assistance Programme. Your workforce will have access to a trained counsellor any time, day or night. Thus, providing this support can help your staff at a difficult time in their life.
Going beyond the basics
It is easy to go that one step beyond the basic offering too, and offer a broader employee benefits package tailored to your demographic. Younger people are becoming much more savvy job seekers. Therefore, often considering the wider benefits package available to them from a potential employer, as well as their basic salary.
Considering that virtual GPs and a choice of health and wellbeing benefits are popular among workers today. Something that many employers should consider is Private Medical Insurance. Many policies will offer:
- 24/7 virtual access to a GP or healthcare professional
- Included or optional cover for family members
- More accessible hours and shorter waiting times for treatment
- Private consultations and treatment
- And so much more.
If you are not sure where to start and need some guidance, get in touch for an initial conversation and for tailored, unbiased advice on the best healthcare benefits for you.
