One in Five Employees with Long-Term Illness Supported by RedArc Were Helped to Remain in or Return to Work

Why It Matters

Effective clinical and emotional support translates into measurable productivity gains and reduces the massive economic burden of health‑related inactivity for businesses and the broader economy.

Key Takeaways

• 20% of supported employees stay or return to work
• Support improves confidence for 51% of participants
• 71% value awareness of full support options
• Clinical case management reduces recovery delays
• Long‑term sickness costs employers ~$106 bn annually

Pulse Analysis

Employers are confronting a silent productivity drain as long‑term health conditions keep millions out of the labour market. In the United Kingdom, roughly 2.8 million working‑age individuals are economically inactive due to illness, costing businesses an estimated $106 billion each year. RedArc’s latest survey demonstrates that targeted support—delivered through insurers or employer‑funded policies—can reverse this trend, with 20% of recipients maintaining or regaining employment. The data underscores the strategic advantage of integrating health‑focused services into employee benefit portfolios.

The survey’s findings reveal tangible outcomes beyond mere employment status. More than half of participants reported heightened confidence, and over a quarter experienced greater engagement in activities they enjoy, both of which are strong predictors of sustained work participation. Moreover, 71% of those accessing RedArc’s clinical case management appreciated the comprehensive guidance on NHS, charitable, and community resources. Such holistic assistance not only mitigates the risk of self‑diagnosis and inappropriate treatment but also accelerates recovery pathways, delivering cost‑effective value for insurers and employers alike.

For decision‑makers, the implication is clear: embedding practical and emotional clinical support into health and protection policies is no longer optional. Companies that leverage these added‑value services can curb avoidable absenteeism, lower long‑term sickness costs, and enhance workforce resilience. Insurers, meanwhile, stand to differentiate their offerings by showcasing measurable health outcomes. As the labour market tightens and margins shrink, the strategic deployment of specialist support will likely become a competitive differentiator, driving both employee well‑being and bottom‑line performance.