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Transforming health: How business can lead the charge in preventative healthcare

Discover how businesses can lead in preventative healthcare to boost employee well-being, reduce costs, and support a sustainable, healthier UK society.

22/07/2025 · 5 minute read

The UK is facing an urgent need to transition from a reactive healthcare system that focuses on treating illness to a preventative model that emphasises health promotion. In this context, businesses have a responsibility to support the physical and mental well-being of their employees as part of their duty of care, ultimately contributing to a healthier society and a sustainable health system. Contact our experts to discuss how they can help support your business's future development.  

The UK Government is increasingly prioritising preventative health measures as part of a key strategy to improve public health and ease pressure on the NHS. Shifting the focus from sickness to prevention — addressing issues such as obesity, promoting exercise, and encouraging healthier lifestyle choices — is not just good policy; it’s a crucial message for the nation and businesses.  

The NHS Long Term Workforce Plan is an important attempt to make good decisions now that will impact the health of the NHS workforce in England, so that its workforce has the healthcare system it needs to support patients. The plan emphasises that "prevention is better than cure," and includes commitments to significantly expand services for tobacco cessation, weight management, and mental health treatment, as well as initiatives to tackle some of the root causes of ill health, such as poor housing, education, income, and nutrition. 

The NHS Plan is a valuable blueprint for other organisations to think about what actions are needed to progress in prioritising the health and well-being of their employees. 

Chronic health conditions in the UK workforce

The UK is grappling with a growing health crisis marked by rising rates of chronic illnesses such as obesity, mental health disorders, diabetes, and cancer. These conditions not only place immense strain on the NHS but also create significant challenges for businesses. Chronic illnesses are linked to increased sickness absenteeism, diminished productivity, and substantial costs to the UK economy.  

The NHS Plan highlights several preventable conditions that are increasing in prevalence and severity: 

  • Obesity: Over 26% of adults in England are classified as obese, a figure that continues to rise. Among children aged 10–11, 22.1% are now obese — a concerning trend for future workforce health. Obesity is associated with an increased risk of various health conditions, including cardiovascular disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, and cancer.  
  • Mental health: One in six working-age adults report experiencing mental health problems in any given week. Mental illness accounts for over 40% of all GP consultations and is one of the leading causes of sickness absence in the UK.  
  • Diabetes: The NHS predicts that by 2030, over 5.5 million people will be living with diabetes, the majority of whom will have type 2 diabetes. This condition currently costs the NHS more than £10 billion annually.  
  • Smoking: Smoking claims approximately 80,000 lives each year in the UK. The Government aims to make England smokefree by 2030. 

These conditions contribute to direct healthcare costs, lost productivity, and absenteeism, which are estimated to cost UK employers billions annually.

Businesses have a moral obligation to take accountability for their employees' health and well-being. Employers who actively support health initiatives stand to benefit in several ways: 

  • Increased employee productivity: Healthy employees are more engaged and productive. 
  • Reduced absenteeism costs: By addressing health issues early, businesses can mitigate the direct and indirect costs associated with absenteeism. 
  • Enhanced workforce loyalty: A supportive culture fosters loyalty, reducing turnover rates and associated recruitment costs. 

Preventative healthcare is, therefore, not only a societal priority but also a sound business strategy. 

Tailoring health strategies for businesses: People at the centre

Providers that adopt a tailored approach to healthcare strategies will gain a competitive edge.    Understanding future health trends within the workforce is a crucial first step in proactively supporting at-risk employees. Businesses that prioritise mental health and well-being, while also understanding the health demographics of their workforce, are more likely to foster a supportive work environment, enhance employee engagement, reduce turnover, and ultimately improve overall productivity and organisational success. 

How employers can take a proactive approach and impact societal health

Forward-thinking businesses can play a vital role in addressing health inequalities and promoting societal well-being by: 

  • Tailoring strategies to workforce needs: Aligning health initiatives with the actual health lifecycle, roles, and responsibilities of employees. 
  • Creating healthier work environments: Promoting healthy behaviours and fostering a culture of wellness. 
  • Providing accessible mental health support: Integrating psychological safety into workplace culture. 
  • Using data for early intervention: Using predictive analytics to identify emerging health risks and offer tailored interventions that enhance long-term health. 

Employers that actively address these issues are not only reducing business risk — they are contributing to a healthier, more productive society and playing a key role in delivering on the NHS’s vision for a sustainable health system 

A one-size-fits-all approach does not work for employee health, employers should be thinking about how to implement health initiatives and creating strategies that align to the needs of the workforce, from wellness programmes to mental health support.  

Collaboration across key roles — including chief people officers, chief finance officers, risk managers, and health and safety officers — is key for achieving optimal outcomes. By moving away from a siloed view of HR ownership, employers can create integrated strategies that prioritises people across the entire organisation.  

Maintaining a productive, loyal, and resilient workforce 

As the government prioritises preventive healthcare, businesses have an opportunity and a responsibility to proactively safeguard the health and well-being of their workforce.  

Marsh McLennan works with clients to develop collaborate and tailored approaches that can help: 

  • Maintain a productive, loyal, and resilient workforce. 
  • Reduce operational risks and insurance liability costs. 
  • Foster a culture of care that drives retention and performance. 
  • Align with regulatory and sustainability goals.  

This is not just about improving workforce health; it’s about building a future-fit people-centred business. 

If you would like to discuss any topics raised in this article, please contact us.

Our people

Sarah Triggs

Sarah Triggs

Health and Social Care Leader, Marsh McLennan UK Industries

  • United Kingdom

Elif Oflaz

Elif Oflaz

Associate Consultant, Mercer Marsh Benefits

  • United Kingdom

Placeholder Image

Lorna Feeney

Mental Health & Wellbeing Practice Leader

  • United Kingdom

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