Women lag behind men in workplace wellbeing

Despite growing investment in workplace wellbeing initiatives, the report – based on a comprehensive YouGov survey – highlights a significant gender gap in employee wellbeing at work:

Only 54% of women rate their wellbeing as "good," compared to 63% of men, indicating a notable disparity. Flexible working is the most sought-after workplace benefit, with 46% of women citing it as their top request for 2025. This demand for work-life balance comes at a time when many larger corporations are encouraging a return to office-based work, potentially impacting employee wellbeing and retention. Paid wellness days or sabbaticals are also among the most requested support mechanisms reflecting a shift towards workplace cultures that actively support mental and physical wellbeing.

Financial security remains a top concern

Employees are increasingly prioritising financial wellness in their career decisions:

• 40% of employees say they would seek a new job in 2025 due to subpar pay or inadequate salary increases
• Economic uncertainty (23%) and job security (20%) rank among the top concerns for employees
• These findings highlight the importance of competitive salaries and employer-provided financial benefits that ease financial stress

Additional key findings

• 25% of employees who reported poor wellbeing want better mental health support at work
• The oldest (over-55s) and youngest (under-35s) employees report the highest levels of happiness at work
• Health insurance is the third most requested employee benefit in 2025, after flexible working and paid wellness days

Comment from the CEO: "Our report’s findings make it clear that workplace wellbeing is not a one-size-fits-all solution," said Sammy Rubin, CEO and Co-Founder of YuLife. "Women, in particular, are feeling the strain, and employers must step up with policies that support work-life balance and financial security. Flexible working, meaningful financial support, and tools that improve employee wellbeing are no longer perks – they’re essential in 2025."

Contributors to the report

• The report features insights from leading HR, health, and insurance experts, including:
• Brett Hill, Head of Health & Protection, Broadstone
• Debra Clark, Head of Wellbeing, Towergate
• Katie Howarth, Head of People, YuLife
• Leanne Mullen, Culture & Engagement Manager, Bruntwood
• Alys Martin, People Director, what3words, Eave, Zappar
• Darren Perkins, Managing Director, Premier Choice Healthcare