Posted on Sept. 20, 2009 by Stefan Jonsson, Programs and Marketing Coordinator
NEW YORK--(Business Wire)--
Many employers are increasing their employee wellness communications and most
expect wellness budget cuts will be no greater than other cutbacks, because
these programs help employees cope with issues brought about by the economic
downturn. These are among the survey findings released today by Buck
Consultants, an ACS company and one of the world`s leading human resource and
benefits consulting firms.
"Despite pressure to reduce costs in many other areas of operations, 45 percent
of respondents report increasing their wellness communications to highlight
available services that can assist employees with issues brought on by the
economic downturn," said Ruth Hunt, a principal in Buck`s Communication practice
who co-directed the survey. Areas of support include Employee Assistance Plan
counseling for stress or depression, and the need for financial planning
resources.
Buck conducted its interactive audience survey with employer delegates attending
the 4th Annual Employer Health & Human Capital Congress, held in February 2009.
"Our findings suggest that wellness has `come of age` as a vital benefit
offering, especially during financially difficult times," said Barry Hall, Buck
principal and global wellness leader who also directed the survey. "Since the
onset of the financial crisis, workers` use of wellness services has increased
for 53 percent of respondents, and only five percent have seen a decrease."
Read the rest of the article here.
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