Small firms 'investing more in healthcare benefits for staff'

Small and medium-sized businesses are investing more in healthcare benefits for employees than larger companies, according to a survey by Employee Benefits magazine and healthcare provider Simplyhealth.

The research revealed that 27% of companies with less than 100 employees have a company-paid Health Cash Plan scheme in place compared to 17% of firms with 100 - 500 employees and just 3% of firms with 501- 1,000 employees.

"In such challenging times, loyal and motivated employees are invaluable to a company's survival and no more so than within the SME arena," said James Glover, corporate sales and marketing director for Simplyhealth.

"This is why it is so important for employers to look after staff wellbeing. A company-paid Healthplan can provide a welcomed and valued form of support, whilst helping employers to maintain a happy and healthy workforce."