Britain is facing a sickness crisis. Long-term sickness absence is at record levels, impacting productivity and deepening inequalities across the country. In our heartland of South Yorkshire, people living in deprived areas can expect to spend up to 20 years longer in poor health compared to those in more affluent areas.
The impact isn’t just regional. Our workplace wellbeing survey shows that certain industries are hit harder than others, with some health issues disproportionately affecting specific sectors.
The World Health Organization estimates that 80% of heart disease, stroke, and type 2 diabetes cases could be prevented through earlier intervention and lifestyle changes. The NHS itself recognises that prevention saves money and improves outcomes. Despite this, our healthcare system remains locked in a cycle of treating illness rather than preventing it.
The NHS is world-class at urgent care, but the path to a healthier, more productive nation has to focus on prevention. But what does prevention really look like? And how can workplaces step up to help? The good news is that many employers already have the tools to make a difference. For those who don’t, investing in prevention doesn’t have to break the bank, and the rewards are significant for both employees and businesses.
The prevention opportunity
The challenge
Awareness of preventative health is growing. Since the pandemic, 58% of people say they are more health conscious. More cancers are being caught earlier, and more people are seeking support for their health and wellbeing.
But there’s still more to do to shift the focus from treatment to prevention. It requires a change in mindset, investment in tech-led preventative tools, and an on-going commitment reflected in government policy. But while national change takes time, individuals and businesses can play their part and take action now.
Why prevention is so important
We know that long-term sickness reduces economic activity, increases pressure on the NHS, and creates a less happy, less healthy nation, and that’s reflected in our 2025 workplace wellbeing survey.
Almost half the UK workforce (46%) say they have a health condition that affects their daily lives, with mental health issues topping the list at 23%.
In fact, half of employees said their mental health had impacted their productivity in the past year. On top of these health issues, 37% of workers are worried about whether the NHS will be there when they need it, and only 41% are confident they’ll get support when required. This lack of trust in the NHS is concerning, as it could discourage people from taking a proactive approach to their health.
What prevention means for workplaces
By supporting employees to stay healthy, businesses can reduce absences, improve productivity, and create a culture where people thrive. It starts with the basics, such as supporting daily healthy habits and providing access to both physical and mental wellbeing resources.
In fact, more than half of all employees (55%) have accessed their employer’s health and wellbeing support at least once in the past year, up from 42% in 2023.
Three-quarters of UK workers (75%) find their employer’s health support useful, with simple solutions such as health screenings, telephone GPs and mental health support being well-utilised by employees. People are looking for preventative support, and they’re increasingly turning to their workplace to get it.
“If prevention is the Government’s priority, they must make it easier, not harder, for people to act early. If we truly want to encourage prevention, we must send a clear signal: prevention is not a luxury, it’s a national priority, and it’s accessible to all.”
Dave Capper
CEO of Westfield Health
Three actions to support preventative health
We believe that leaders across the country have a responsibility to be part of the prevention agenda. At Westfield Health, we’re determined to lead this shift. Our recent launch of the Sport Legacy Institute in South Yorkshire, in partnership with the South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority, is a pioneering example of public, private, and academic sectors working together to address health inequalities.
Build awareness in your workplace
Changing habits starts with simple actions. Investing in health leadership training for your leaders, managers and HR teams can help them spot issues early and signpost to effective support. An open culture encourages conversations about health, and prompts employees to take preventative action.
Invest in wellbeing support
Health cash plans, wellbeing support and health insurance are all effective tools. These initiatives can be scaled to suit any workforce, and work together to help employees maintain their health, not just treat illness.