Prioritising Wellbeing – HR’s Top Focus for 2025
Prioritising employee wellbeing has emerged as the foremost concern for HR professionals across the U.K. in 2025. This insight comes from the recent findings of WorkBuzz’s State of Employee Engagement Report, which gathered perspectives from over 640 HR experts, including 335 based in the U.K.
Highlighting the importance of prioritising employee wellbeing in 2025
This report underscores a significant shift in HR priorities, with employee wellbeing consistently being a focal point over recent years. Previously ranking as the second highest concern, it has now taken precedence as organisations strive to support the mental, emotional, and physical health of their workforce.
This shift is largely driven by the challenge of balancing flexible working arrangements with wellbeing issues, particularly those heightened by the isolation associated with home working. Younger employees, aged 16-34, present a unique challenge due to their preference for remote work coupled with a heightened risk of depression and loneliness.
Steven Frost, CEO of WorkBuzz, articulates this challenge succinctly: “Employers are navigating a complex paradox – offering remote and flexible working options while managing the associated wellbeing impacts. Striking a balance between flexibility and a duty of care to encourage a supportive workplace culture is a significant hurdle for many HR teams.”
The report also highlights a growing emphasis on employee engagement, which has risen from the fifth to the second spot on HR professionals’ priority list. This shift reflects a focus on enhancing everyday employee experiences through active listening and responsiveness to employee needs.
Frost emphasises, “HR leaders are increasingly prioritising employee feedback to improve daily experiences. They aim to implement changes that genuinely reflect employee desires and necessities, rather than imposing top-down initiatives.”
Talent attraction remains a persistent challenge, maintaining its position as the third priority for U.K. HR professionals. The struggle to secure diverse, highly skilled candidates, particularly those with critical digital skills, persists across various industries.
Frost concludes, “Attracting top talent requires a holistic approach, positioning organisations as desirable and inclusive workplaces for all.”
For more detailed insights, WorkBuzz’s State of Employee Engagement Report 2024/25 is available for download here Click to view .