Two-fifths (40%) of employer respondents believe that providing office perks, such as a games room, free lunchtime fitness classes and an indoor slide, can reduce employee stress, while 27% think these perks can enhance productivity, according to research by recruitment website Totaljobs.
Its survey of 1,005 employees and 260 employers in the UK also found that 25% of employer respondents feel that their ability to retain staff is aided by their office and its perks, while 13% find that ‘cool’ offices are more appealing to younger generations within their workforce.
Lynne Cahillane (pictured), head of marketing at Totaljobs, said: “[An employee’s] working environment undoubtedly has an impact on both [their] mood and output, and with the average working week meaning that many employees are spending over 40 hours in their offices, it is clear to see just how significant these spaces are.”
With this in mind, 27% of employees have access to showers or a washing area at their office, while 26% can use a bike storage area and 12% are provided with sports equipment or a gym.
In terms of employee down time, 23% of employers provide a quiet room for staff and a further 15% offer sofas, bean bags or cushions. More than one in 10 (12%) of employers also enable employees to access large, informal breakout areas.
Some employers additionally provide discounts at local gyms and restaurants (12%), unlimited snacks (10%) and a games room (10%) for employees. Staff at 10% of organisations are also able to attend inspirational talks at the office.
Cahillane added: “With mental health concerns within the UK workforce at an all-time high, paired with a national productivity crisis, our research reveals the importance of investing in office space as a method of reducing stress and boosting outputs.
“By providing perks, from something as practical as showers and bike storage, to the offer of unlimited snacks or a games room, employers can help to alleviate stress within the workplace and consequently boost morale and productivity.”