shutterstock_1726745419 (1)

The pandemic has been enough to prompt feelings of anxiety and fear in most people, but a survey from a mental health support service has found significantly high levels of worry among transport professionals about a return to the workplace.

Wellbeing provider Westfield Health said its research showed how employees are both worried and confused about how – and where – they will be working.

It said 51% of the 1,500 UK employees report feeling anxious about the return, but that this figure rises to 69% in transport and logistics.

One in five (19%) attribute this concern to a lack of communication about plans for a return to an office or workplace and Westfield Health said this is likely to rise following the recently announced delay to the end of restrictions.

Dave Capper, chief executive of Westfield Health, said: “This latest last-minute change to reopening will yet again take its toll on the financial, physical and mental wellbeing of employees.

“While controlling the virus is a priority, we can’t keep neglecting the bigger mental health impact that is so crucial to the recovery of UK businesses.”

The survey also found that 61% of employees in the sector are looking for more support; not far behind those working in government and retail (66%).

Additionally, its research reveals just 19% of companies in transport and logistics are introducing flexible start and end times or reduced working hours for employees.

“It has been – and continues to be – a minefield for companies to react and adapt,” said Capper.

“The last year has shown how important wellbeing is to a business: it is no longer a nice to have, but a business imperative.”

Topics