Affordable Health Solutions for Small Firms: Is Myhealthpal the Answer?
More small businesses across the UK are recognising that employee wellbeing is a key part of running a successful company. From recruitment and retention to productivity and morale, the right health support can make a measurable difference. And with rising demand from jobseekers for proactive health benefits, offering the right support is no longer optional. It is becoming a business essential.
Health solutions don’t have to be complex or expensive. Options like virtual GP access, mental health support, and flexible working are now accessible even to the smallest teams. Services such as Myhealthpal are helping SMEs make employee wellbeing a practical and affordable part of their business strategy.
Health Benefits Now Influence Job Decisions
Today’s workforce is more aware than ever of the value of health cover in a benefits package. A 2025 survey by Elevate found that 56% of UK adults are more likely to accept a job that includes employer-provided health benefits. Two-thirds of respondents also said they want proactive healthcare, not just support when they’re already unwell.
Other research from Paydata revealed that over 20% of employees now rate private medical cover or cash health plans as their most valued workplace benefit, placing it ahead of pensions and annual bonuses. At the same time, 77% of employers now offer flexible working patterns to meet changing expectations, according to a UK Government employer survey.
Small Businesses Are Adopting Smarter Benefit Models
Many small firms are rethinking their approach to employee benefits. A report from Howden and YouGov showed that 77% of SMEs are planning to review or improve their benefits packages, aiming to compete with larger employers and keep their teams supported.
This shift includes an increase in access to mental health support, fitness programmes, and quick medical advice through services like small business health insurance. These tailored solutions help small employers meet the expectations of a modern workforce while staying within budget.
Workplace Cover Is on the Rise Across the UK
Figures from the Association of British Insurers show that more than 4.7 million people in the UK now have private medical insurance, with most policies provided through work. Employer-backed health cover rose by 8% in 2023, and more than one million claims were made, representing a 15% increase from the previous year.
Crucially, this support helps people return to work more quickly. The ABI found that 42% of absent employees receiving insurer support were back at work within four weeks, and 81% returned within six months. These outcomes help employers reduce long-term sick leave and minimise the cost of absence.
Implementing a Cost-Effective Health Plan Is Simpler Than You Think
Small firms do not need large HR teams or inflated budgets to get started. Most begin by asking staff what matters to them, then test benefits with a small group before expanding. On average, SMEs spend between £150 and £250 per employee each year on health and wellbeing support. Many choose flexible packages that include mental health resources, physical wellbeing options, and access to quick medical consultations.
New technology is making it easier to personalise employee support. Some platforms offer AI-guided wellbeing plans, while others use virtual reality to support stress management. These tools allow small businesses to offer meaningful health support that feels relevant and accessible to their teams.
Business Leaders Are Taking Responsibility for Wellbeing
There is growing recognition that staff wellbeing is a business responsibility. Aon’s Benefits and Trends Survey found that 95% of UK employers feel responsible for employee health, and 94% believe that expectations around wellbeing are rising each year.
Willis Towers Watson reported that 60% of employers are looking for better value from their benefit strategies. More than two-thirds are planning to expand the health and wellbeing support they offer to staff in the years ahead.
These findings suggest that even smaller businesses can stay competitive by adopting affordable health solutions that deliver real value to their teams.
Ready to Offer Smarter Health Support to Your Team?
Investing in employee wellbeing doesn’t need to be complicated or expensive. With services like Myhealthpal, small businesses have access to flexible health solutions that can improve retention, reduce absences, and support a healthier workplace. Start by asking your team what they value most, explore the tools available, and put wellbeing at the centre of your business success.
