Cognexo

The government's argument

Promote self-reliance, lessen long-term dependency on welfare. Meaningful employment has positive effects on mental wellbeing — structure, routine, social interaction. Reducing welfare costs could allow reallocation of resources towards enhanced mental health services or employment support programmes.

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The counterargument: Pressure and stigma in the workplace

Critics argue the approach overlooks the complexities of mental health and places undue pressure on individuals who may not be ready to return to work. Mental health conditions (depression, anxiety, PTSD) vary widely in severity. Forcing premature return may exacerbate conditions. Stigma surrounding mental health creates additional workplace challenges.

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Impact on employers

Employers will likely face an increased number of employees with mental health conditions entering or re-entering the workforce. Strategies to address this:

Mental health training and awareness programmes

Employee Assistance Programmes (EAPs) offering confidential counselling

Flexible work arrangements — remote working, flexible scheduling, job sharing

Creating a supportive workplace culture where employees feel valued, respected and empowered

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Key stats:

Poor mental health accounts for more than half of all work-related illnesses; 51% of long-term sick leave is due to stress, depression, or anxiety (HSE 2022)

55% of workers feel that work is getting more intense and demanding; 61% feel exhausted at the end of most working days (TUC 2023)

64% of managers have considered quitting for a job that would better support their wellbeing (Deloitte 2023)

70% of managers cite organisational barriers to supporting staff wellbeing (Deloitte 2023)

1 in 5 UK workers reported feeling unable to manage stress and pressure in the workplace (Mental Health UK 2023)

A third of managers feel out of their depth supporting their team with mental health concerns (MHFA England 2023)

9% of professionals are experiencing thoughts of suicide or self-harm (Champion Health 2023)

29% of managers said more support and training from their employer would help them support other team members (Champion Health 2023)

Only 10% of employees are currently seeking support for their mental health (MHFA England 2023)

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Dan Buckley CEO quote: "The intersection of mental health and work requires careful consideration and support from all stakeholders. We need a holistic approach to addressing mental health issues in the workplace which goes beyond the individual and involves employers, employees, policymakers, mental health professionals and the wider community."

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