Alternatives to traditional wellness programs and wellness allowances

The most effective way to improve health in the workplace is to prevent ill health at an early stage instead of focusing on rehabilitation. The wellness allowance is one way for employers to work preventively against ill health without having to pay tax. But is it really effective? Wellr instead offers digital wellness services that can reach those who do not make use of the traditional wellness allowance.

Wellness refers to measures that encourage a person to take their own initiative to improve their health. And the concept of health includes much more than just exercise; it can involve improving eating habits, sleep patterns, the ability to manage stress, or quitting smoking. Many employers feel they have done enough when they decide to offer a generous wellness allowance. But surveys indicate that almost 40 percent of Swedes who have access to the allowance choose not to use it. Twenty percent of them say they do not have the time, and 31 percent say they lack sufficient motivation. There is also the question of how many of those who actually use the wellness allowance truly improve their health. A large proportion of those who use their wellness allowance would probably exercise just as much even without it.

Of course, the wellness allowance has value. It is about employer branding – being an attractive employer that offers an employee benefit. But if, as an employer, you genuinely want to improve the health of your staff and reduce future costs related to ill health, there is much to suggest that there are other, more effective measures.

In addition to the wellness allowance, you can, for example, motivate your staff and create space for health-promoting activities during or in connection with working hours. It is important to keep in mind those who do not usually take an interest in their own health when planning your initiatives. One approach can be to work with initiatives that increase everyday physical activity. Holding walking meetings, organizing a step challenge, or introducing theme weeks when everyone walks to or from work are a few suggestions. The key is to pitch the activities at a reasonable level to attract as many people as possible.

Wellr works according to a concept where we start by identifying risks and at-risk individuals/groups using a digital health check. The system then automatically produces tailored measures for each individual based on their risk areas and personal level of ambition. By working across a broad spectrum and covering many health elements, you can not only increase the level of physical activity but also achieve changes in, for example, eating habits, smoking habits, stress management, ergonomics, and the work environment.