Across the UK, employee mental health is a top concern – and rightly so. Burnout is on the rise, anxiety is common, and HR teams are investing heavily in workplace wellbeing.
But many wellbeing strategies are missing a key piece of the puzzle: financial wellbeing.
While initiatives like gym discounts, yoga classes and wellness days can help, they don’t address one of the root causes of stress at work – financial insecurity.
How Financial Stress Is Undermining Employee Wellbeing
Financial stress at work is more widespread, and more harmful, than many leaders realise.
The latest data from the 2025 Global Culture Report highlights just how closely mental health and money are linked:
- 78% of European employees report burnout
- Employees in financial survival mode are 6x more likely to face clinical anxiety
- Financial stress increases burnout risk by 12x
And according to further reports from HR News, 52% of UK workers are under significant financial pressure.
This isn’t just about budgeting or saving. It’s about security, confidence, and control—core drivers of wellbeing.
Why Financial Wellbeing Support Works
Forward-thinking organisations that invest in a financial wellbeing strategy are seeing measurable results:
- Depression risk drops by 42%
- Anxiety falls by 43%
- Employee engagement increases by 156% when financial education is part of the wellbeing plan
This isn’t theory. Financial wellbeing is a powerful mental health intervention and forward-thinking employers are already taking action, and it’s transforming workplace mental health.
Three Ways to Act
- Integrate Financial Education
Help employees understand how to manage their money—whether they’re dealing with debt, budgeting, or saving for retirement. Tailored financial education builds long-term confidence and resilience.
- Offer Personalised, Practical Support
Provide access to digital tools, digestible education, coaching, and resources to help address real-life financial decisions. When support is relevant and judgement-free, employees are more likely to engage.
- Recognise Value beyond Pay
Recognition doesn’t always have to be monetary. But when financial stress is high, meaningful, inclusive support can build loyalty and improve retention.
Final Thought: From Perk to Priority
Financial wellbeing isn’t just a “nice-to-have”. It’s a powerful lever for better mental health, improved retention, and a more resilient workforce.
At WellFi, we help UK employers embed financial wellbeing into workplace culture through clear, engaging and impactful financial education.
Improve mental health Boost employee engagement Build financial confidence
Discover how we can help your workforce Book a Demo.
