In a society where loss is an inevitable part of life, the support of friends, family, and employers can play a crucial role in helping individuals navigate the difficult journey of grief.
However, a recent report from MetLife UK has revealed that not all employees receive the support they need when faced with bereavement, highlighting the importance of offering consistent support throughout the year.
MetLife UK’s Last Word report, which surveyed 2,000 adults in March 2023 who had experienced a bereavement in the last two years, uncovered concerning findings about the prevalence of grief in the workforce.
More than one in three (36%) UK adults reported experiencing a bereavement in the past two years, indicating the widespread impact of loss.
During these emotionally challenging times, the report found that two in five (39%) individuals leaned on their partner or spouse for support, while a quarter (23%) turned to friends and neighbours.
However, alarmingly, one in four (23%) reported grieving alone, underscoring the potential isolation felt by those dealing with loss.
Grieving employees receive little support from employers
Despite the significant number of employees grappling with grief, the report revealed that a concerning proportion did not receive adequate support from their employers. Shockingly, one in seven (15%) employees said they were offered no support from their employers following the loss of a loved one. For those who did receive support, it often fell short, with one in ten (10%) only being granted unpaid time off to grieve, and 11 percent receiving minimal support, typically just three days off work.
Also, nearly a third (32%) expressed a desire for paid time off to deal with bereavement, indicating a clear need for employers to reassess their support structures and policies surrounding grief in the workplace.
Adrian Matthews, Head of Employee Benefits at MetLife UK, emphasised the importance of normalising conversations around death and supporting employees throughout their grieving process. Matthews stated, “Dealing with grief can take any length of time and feel very isolating for individuals…it’s important that employers ensure they support their employees all year round.”
Funeral planning and time to grieve
Acknowledging the multifaceted impact of grief, MetLife offers comprehensive support through its Group Life offering. This includes access to Funeral Concierge Services, providing guidance and assistance with funeral planning, as well as grief counselling services for both employees and their families.
Matthews highlighted the significance of alleviating the emotional toll of loss by providing practical support, allowing individuals the necessary time and space to grieve.
As society observes Dying Matters Week, the message is clear: supporting grieving employees is not just a moral imperative, it’s an ongoing commitment that requires proactive measures from employers to ensure the well-being of their workforce.
Amelia Brand is the Editor for HRreview, and host of the HR in Review podcast series. With a Master’s degree in Legal and Political Theory, her particular interests within HR include employment law, DE&I, and wellbeing within the workplace. Prior to working with HRreview, Amelia was Sub-Editor of a magazine, and Editor of the Environmental Justice Project at University College London, writing and overseeing articles into UCL’s weekly newsletter. Her previous academic work has focused on philosophy, politics and law, with a special focus on how artificial intelligence will feature in the future.
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