Supporting employee wellbeing: A year in review
By Matt Smith, Rehabilitation Manager, Aviva Group Protection
2024 was another remarkable year for Aviva’s early intervention and vocational rehabilitation services. As the Rehabilitation Manager, I’m proud to share some of the key achievements and insights from our efforts to support employee wellbeing and facilitate successful returns to work through our Group Income Protection policy.
Our Highest-Ever Employer Engagement at Aviva
The demand for our rehabilitation services has never been higher. In 2024, nearly 300 employers accessed our support, the highest number we’ve ever seen in a single year. This engagement allowed us to assist over 2,600 employees, helping them recover and return to work. Our return-to-work success rate stood at an impressive 86%, a testament to the effectiveness of our rehabilitation pathways.
Mental health: A primary focus
Mental health continues to be a significant area of support. With the ongoing challenges in accessing mental health services nationwide, our early intervention efforts have proven crucial. Nearly half of our early intervention cases were related to mental health, supporting 1,155 employees in this space. Of those who we helped return to work, 96% returned before the end of the policy deferred period, highlighting the impact of timely intervention.
Expanding support for complex conditions, including cancer
While mental health remains our most used pathway, vocational rehabilitation support extends to all conditions. In 2024, we saw a 25% increase in new cancer cases supported and a 20% growth in neurological cases, including stroke, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s, and brain injuries. Our network of specialist Health Coaches and Neurological Occupational Therapists continue to provide invaluable support for these complex cases.
Tailored rehabilitation services
At Aviva, we understand that one size does not fit all. Our rehabilitation support is bespoke, tailored to the unique needs of each employee. In 2024, we made 840 referrals for private treatment or specialist support, underscoring our commitment to providing holistic, multidisciplinary services that ensure safe and sustainable returns to work.
Emerging trends: Neurodiversity
One of the most notable trends in recent years has been the increasing focus on neurodiversity. Since launching our specialist Neurodiversity pathway in 2022, we’ve seen a 70% increase in demand for support in this area. Employers are increasingly seeking our assistance to help their neurodivergent employees thrive in the workplace, a trend that has continued into 2025.
Conclusion
Our achievements in 2024 reflect Aviva’s dedication to supporting employee wellbeing through comprehensive and tailored rehabilitation services. As we move forward, we remain committed to making a real difference to the lives of our customers, providing good outcomes for employers and their workforce.
Early intervention and rehabilitation services are non-contractual benefits that Aviva can change or withdraw at any time.
Data in the article refers to Aviva Group Income Protection Rehabilitation department. Data covers January – December 2024.
