Understanding Mental Health (MH) Support as an Employee Benefit

Mental health is a major factor influencing workplace wellbeing in the UK. According to the Mental Health Foundation, mental health conditions accounted for 7.9% of all sickness absence occurrences in 2022. This represents a significant challenge for employers, impacting not only productivity but also their duty of care to staff. Link -​Mental Health Foundation

One way employers are responding is by offering mental health (MH) support services as part of their employee benefits package. These services are designed to help employees access the support they need, with the aim of promoting a healthier and more resilient workforce.

This article outlines the typical features of workplace mental health support, including what’s commonly included in standalone services, how support can also be accessed through private medical insurance, and what factors can affect cost and eligibility. It also explores how employees can make use of the services and why employers may want to consider offering them. If you’re considering mental health support as part of an employee benefits strategy, this guide provides a useful starting point—along with guidance on where regulated advice can help.

1. Standalone Mental Health Products

Standalone mental health products are designed to offer employees direct access to wellbeing services without the need for a wider insurance policy. These products are often available at a fixed cost per employee and can be used alongside or independently from other employee benefits. For employers looking for flexible options without the complexity of a full insurance policy, a regulated broker can help assess which standalone services may be suitable.

What Do Standalone Mental Health Products Typically Include?

Standalone Mental health products can vary depending on the provider and the type of policy you choose. However, common features may include:

• 24/7 advice helplines.

• Access to trained counsellors or dedicated case managers.

• Online resources such as self-help tools and guided workbooks.

• Psychiatric assessments.

• Fast-track referrals.

  
  

Standalone products can offer flexibility for employers who want to provide targeted mental health support alongside or independently from other employee benefits.

Some services are available as standalone products, as described above, while others may be offered as add-ons to a private medical insurance (PMI) policy. It’s important to note that eligibility and coverage will depend on the specific terms and conditions set by the provider.

2. Mental Health Cover Through Private Medical Insurance (PMI)

Many private medical insurance (PMI) policies offer the option to add mental health cover. This additional coverage is typically subject to the insurer's terms and conditions, and the specific benefits may vary depending on the policy and provider.

When mental health support is included in a PMI policy, it typically provides access to a certain amount of both outpatient and inpatient treatment, depending on the policy’s terms, limits, and eligibility criteria.

The underwriting terms selected typically determine what’s covered, along with the insurer’s general exclusion list, particularly in relation to pre-existing conditions. A regulated health insurance broker can usually explain the different types of underwriting in more detail and help businesses understand their implications if mental health cover is added to a private medical insurance policy.

Costs and Access

Pricing for mental health benefits can vary depending on factors such as the size of the organisation, the type of product, and the provider. Some standalone MH support products are priced at a fixed rate per employee per year, while mental health PMI add-on benefits may have variable pricing based on factors such as age, claims history, and other underwriting considerations.

Employers interested in exploring either standalone mental health products or PMI add-ons can speak with a regulated health insurance broker, who can typically assess business needs and provide guidance. A broker may also explain the onboarding process, user confidentially, and the renewal process, which is usually every 12 months.

Making Use of the Services

When a standalone mental health support product is in place, access is usually straightforward. Employees typically contact a helpline via phone or log into a secure portal using details provided by the employer or broker. In some cases, they may be assigned a dedicated case manager to guide them through the support process.

For PMI policies, claims for mental health treatment may require a referral from a GP, unless the insurer offers a direct access pathway. Claims usually need to be pre-approved first, and eligibility is subject to the insurer’s terms and conditions.

Why Consider Mental Health Support?

Providing mental health support sends a strong message about valuing employee wellbeing. While individual experiences will vary, some organisations may find that these services can help reduce absenteeism and support employees in addressing challenges before they escalate through preventative measures.

Employers looking to offer these services or review their existing policies can consult a regulated broker. A broker can help assess the available options without obligation and ensure that any chosen product is suitable for specific requirements.

Disclaimers:

Disclaimer 1: The information provided in this article is accurate as of April 13, 2025. However, all details are subject to change in the future based on updates to insurer terms, market conditions, or regulatory changes. For the most up-to-date information, please contact a broker or your insurer directly.

Disclaimer 2: The information provided in this article is intended for educational purposes only and should not be used as specific advice for any individual insurer or policy. For details regarding your specific policy, always refer to your insurer’s policy documents or contact a broker or your insurer directly for personalised assistance.