19 Employee wellness program examples for a healthier workplace
An effective employee wellness program is not just a trend; it’s a strategic investment in your workforce’s health, happiness, and productivity!
Wellness programs can range from fitness challenges and mental health resources to flexible working hours and health screenings, each tailored to meet different team needs.
This article explores top examples of employee wellness programs that benefit businesses and their employees, from digital platforms like Teamupp to on-site wellness workshops.
What to expect from a corporate wellness program?
When introducing a corporate wellness program, several essential features create a well-rounded and practical approach to employee wellbeing.
Key elements often include health and wellness program examples like:
- access to mental health resources
- physical fitness initiatives
- nutrition guidance
Many workplace wellness programs also offer flexibility in employee engagement, with options for on-site, virtual, or hybrid activities to suit diverse preferences.
A successful wellness program combines elements to ensure every employee can benefit from its resources and support:
- Inclusivity
- Accessibility
- Adaptability
Why implement an employee wellness program?
Investing in an employee wellness program substantially benefits both the employer and employees.
- For employers, a structured wellness program reduces absenteeism, increases productivity, and improves employee retention, all of which positively impact the organisation’s bottom line.
Wellness programs also create a positive work environment that attracts top talent and fosters a culture of loyalty and engagement.
- For employees, wellness programs offer vital support for their physical and mental health, reducing stress and promoting work-life balance.
Access to wellness resources such as mental health counselling, fitness classes, and wellness coaching can improve overall wellbeing and job satisfaction.
What are employees' expectations for a wellness program?
Studies show that employees now expect more flexible and comprehensive wellness offerings from their employers.
According to the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development’s 2021 Health and wellbeing at Work survey, 60% of employees prioritise access to mental health resources in wellness programmes, while 75% value activities that promote work-life balance, like flexible working hours and virtual health resources.
These findings indicate that employees seek health and wellness program examples addressing:
- Mental health,
- Physical fitness,
- Personal development
Additionally, employees prefer wellness programmes that are inclusive and accessible, with options tailored to individual needs.
Employee wellness plan examples providing remote health consultations, diverse fitness activities, and flexible schedules foster a more engaged, satisfied workforce.
For employers, meeting these expectations can boost employee satisfaction and enhance their reputation as a supportive and caring workplace.
Our top 22 favourite health and wellness program examples
Whether for small businesses or larger organisations, these initiatives promote a positive workplace culture, boost productivity, and enhance overall morale.
This list of employee wellbeing programmes includes activities encouraging physical and mental wellness, making it easy for teams to engage and participate.
Each example includes a practical action plan to create a healthier, more connected workplace.
1. Employee step challenges with Teamupp !
Step challenges encourage physical activity and can be a friendly competition to boost team spirit. Tracking steps promotes daily movement, even in remote work settings, and can help employees meet physical activity goals.
Teamupp offers a comprehensive wellness programme designed to enhance employee health and productivity: Step challenges, biking or running challenges, photo and video challenges, quizzes, and a lot more!
- Average Cost: Our app starts at £1 per employee, making it a very affordable solution tailored to companies’ sizes and structures (remote workers, hybrid events, etc.).
- Action Plan: Download the Teamupp app, register your team, and select from the available wellness activities that best suit your organisation’s needs. Use the app to track steps, set a group goal, and celebrate accomplishments as a team.
2. Flexible working hours and remote days
Flexible working arrangements allow employees to adjust their schedules, giving them more control over their work-life balance.
This can reduce stress, increase job satisfaction, and help employees work during their most productive hours. Flexible options also benefit those with family or personal commitments, supporting a healthier work-life integration.
- Average Cost: Free!
- Action Plan: Set a policy, communicate with your team, and adjust schedules.
3. Meditation and mindfulness resources
Meditation and mindfulness exercises help employees manage stress and stay focused throughout the workday.
By providing free online resources like YouTube videos or apps like Calm, employees can practice mindfulness techniques to improve mental clarity. This encourages a calm, balanced approach to daily tasks.
- Average Cost: Meditation and mindfulness app starts around £50/year for businesses.
- Action Plan: Share links to free resources, encourage daily mindfulness practice, and promote group sessions if desired.
4. Weekly virtual fitness challenges
Encouraging weekly fitness challenges promotes physical health and can be a fun way for teams to connect remotely.
Fitness challenges, such as daily step goals, bring a sense of accomplishment and motivate employees to be more active. Simple goals like “Move for 30 minutes” daily can make a difference.
- Average Cost: Around £0,5 to £1 per employee if you’re using our app and dynamic challenges centred on wellbeing and activity.
- Action Plan: Set weekly goals, track results through a shared platform, and celebrate team achievements… Or simply download Teamupp on your smartphone!
5. Healthy recipe sharing
Encouraging employees to share their favourite healthy recipes fosters a sense of community and supports better eating habits. This helps create an office culture of wellness, where employees inspire one another to make healthier food choices.
- Average Cost: Free
- Action Plan: Set up a shared document or channel for recipe sharing, encourage submissions, and start a monthly newsletter with recipe highlights.
6. Mental health days
Designating specific days for mental health allows employees to recharge and return to work refreshed, which can improve focus and overall productivity.
By recognising mental health as essential, employers convey that they care about their team’s wellbeing. These days, offering as part of the company’s leave policy supports a healthier, more balanced work environment.
- Average Cost: Free
- Action Plan: Update your leave policy to include mental health days and educate team leaders on supporting them.
7. Self-care support sessions
Self-care support sessions are group discussions or workshops on building healthy habits, stress management, and self-care routines. These sessions promote a holistic approach to health, encouraging employees to look after their mental and physical wellbeing.
They can be done as weekly or monthly check-ins for extra support.
- Average Cost: A mental health professional will charge between £30 and £200 for a group session.
- Action Plan: Organise sessions in-house or virtually, share self-care tips, and allow employees to participate voluntarily.
8. Walk and talk meetings
Walk-and-talk meetings encourage employees to get some light exercise while discussing work-related matters. These meetings can relieve stress, improve focus, and stimulate creative thinking.
They’re a great way to replace sedentary conference calls with an activity that promotes wellness.
- Average Cost: Free
- Action Plan: Encourage team members to have walking meetings or take a short walk during phone calls, where possible.
9. Virtual lunch-and-learn sessions
Lunch-and-learn sessions bring employees together to learn about wellness topics, from healthy eating to stress management, while they enjoy their lunch.
These sessions foster learning in a relaxed environment and provide practical tips for a healthier lifestyle. Employees benefit from the knowledge shared and the sense of community.
- Average Cost: The cost of this activity will vary depending on the educational resources you choose.
- Action Plan: Schedule regular sessions, invite employees to participate, and allow time for Q&A at the end.
10. Gratitude practices
Encouraging employees to share what they’re grateful for can help improve mood and build resilience in the workplace. Gratitude practices have been shown to boost positivity and strengthen relationships among team members. Daily expressions of gratitude can create a more supportive, connected workplace.
- Average Cost: Free
- Action Plan: Start meetings with a “gratitude round,” encourage daily journaling, or set up a gratitude board where employees can post positive messages.
11. Peer mentorship program
A peer mentorship program pairs employees to support each other, share insights, and encourage personal growth. This programme can help employees develop professionally and foster stronger connections. Mentorship supports wellbeing by providing a safe space for employees to discuss challenges and receive guidance.
- Average Cost: Free
- Action Plan: Match mentors with mentees, establish a meeting schedule, and provide guidelines for constructive conversations.
12. Financial wellness education
Offering financial wellness resources can help employees manage personal finances, reduce stress, and make informed financial decisions. Resources from a professional empower employees to improve their financial literacy. Feeling more secure when having control over one’s finances is normal and healthy.
- Average Cost: Somewhere around £30 to £90 per employee per year.
- Action Plan: Share reputable online resources, invite financial experts for webinars, and encourage participation.
13. Breathing exercises
Breathing exercises are a simple, accessible way to manage stress and increase focus. Encouraging employees to incorporate these exercises into their daily routines can help improve mental clarity and reduce stress. Regular practice of deep breathing fosters a calm and balanced mindset.
- Average Cost: Free
- Action Plan: Share guides on basic breathing techniques, encourage daily practice, and organise a few guided sessions.
14. Desk stretching routine
Implementing a desk stretching routine helps employees relieve muscle tension from prolonged sitting. Simple stretches can improve circulation and reduce discomfort, especially for those working at desks all day. Regular stretching can boost overall comfort and productivity.
- Average Cost: Free
- Action Plan: Provide stretching guides, set reminders for short breaks, and encourage regular movement.
15. Volunteer days
Offering volunteer days allows employees to support causes they care about while taking a break from their regular work routine. This can improve morale, foster team bonding, and provide a sense of purpose. Employees benefit from the fulfilment and connection that comes from giving back.
- Average Cost: Free
- Action Plan: Arrange partnerships with local charities, provide information on volunteer opportunities, and offer a day off for participation.
16. On-site or online health talks
Health talks provide valuable wellness knowledge, covering stress management, nutrition, and exercise. Employees benefit from professional insights and practical tips for improving their health; these talks also encourage open discussions on wellness.
- Average Cost: Free
- Action Plan: Invite guest speakers from local health organisations or share free resources from reputable wellness channels.
17. Seasonal wellbeing challenges
Seasonal challenges can add fun and excitement to workplace wellness. Examples include hydration challenges in summer or winter wellness goals to encourage healthy eating. These challenges can keep wellness engaging and relevant throughout the year.
- Average Cost: Free
- Action Plan: Develop seasonal themes, promote participation, and recognise achievements with small incentives.
18. Weekly gratitude exercise
Weekly gratitude exercises can improve positivity and foster a supportive workplace. Employees reflect on what they’re thankful for, boosting morale and creating a sense of connection. This simple practice can be incorporated into weekly meetings.
- Average Cost: Free
- Action Plan: Begin weekly meetings with a gratitude round or encourage employees to write down positive moments from their week.
19. Peer support groups
Peer support groups allow employees to connect and share experiences in a safe, supportive environment. These groups help reduce feelings of isolation, encourage open communication, and foster a sense of community within the workplace. Employees can discuss challenges, share advice, and support each other’s personal and professional development.
- Average Cost: Free
- Action Plan: Create a schedule for regular group meetings, designate a facilitator to guide discussions, and encourage team members to participate voluntarily.
3 Employee wellness plan examples to explore in depth
Creating an effective wellness programme involves exploring options that suit your team’s needs, location, and work style.
Here are three employee wellness plans illustrating varied approaches to supporting employee wellbeing, each with specific benefits, costs, and practical implementation details.
Whether your team is remote, on-site, or a mix of both, these wellness solutions can help foster a healthier, more engaged, and productive workforce.
1. Teamupp: A digital Wellness program
Teamupp is a digital wellness platform that engages on-site and remote employees in wellness activities. It offers virtual classes, fitness challenges, mental health resources, and social team-building events that connect employees, regardless of their location.
- Benefits: Enhances team cohesion, improves mental and physical health, and keeps remote employees engaged.
- Cost: Starting from a few pennies (between £0,5 to £1 per employee), but varies depending on the number of team members.
- Duration: One shot, or monthly subscription with flexible renewal.
- Ideal Team Size: Suitable for teams of 10 to 5000+.
- Location: Accessible worldwide, making it ideal for hybrid and remote teams.
2. On-Site Fitness Classes and Wellness Workshops
Hosting regular on-site fitness classes, like yoga or Zumba, and wellness workshops on nutrition and mental resilience can help build a healthier workplace culture.
- Benefits: Boosts physical health, reduces stress, and fosters team bonding through shared activities.
- Cost: Sessions range from £300 to £500, with discounts for ongoing weekly or monthly sessions.
- Duration: Classes and workshops can last 1 hour, with ongoing sessions over several months.
- Ideal Team Size: Flexible; can be adapted to small groups or entire departments.
- Location: On-site at the office, or virtual options available for remote employees.
3. Comprehensive Health Screenings and Preventive Care Programmes
Partnering with local healthcare providers to offer regular health screenings helps employees stay healthy. Preventive care packages can also include vaccination drives and smoking cessation programs.
- Benefits: Improves employee health awareness, reduces sick days, and lowers healthcare costs for the employer.
- Cost: Approximately £50-£100 per employee per screening, with optional add-ons.
- Duration: Screenings are usually conducted quarterly or annually.
- Ideal Team Size: Suitable for companies of any size.
- Location: On-site or at nearby healthcare centres, depending on provider options.
Investing in an employee wellness program transforms workplaces into spaces of support and growth. Start exploring these wellness program ideas, and see the difference it makes in your team’s wellbeing and productivity.
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