How Retailers Are Using AI To Boost Worker Wellbeing

AI-powered wellbeing dashboard launched

The Retail Trust, in collaboration with leading retailers like FatFace and Next, alongside tech partners BJSS and WorkL, is launching a pioneering 'happiness dashboard'. This AI-driven platform is designed to track and enhance employee wellbeing trends, demonstrating the significant value of mental health support for both businesses and the wider economy.

Addressing the Urgent Need for Retail Employee Support

In a retail sector where 80% of employees experienced declining wellbeing last year, and almost half felt unsafe due to increased crime and assaults, the demand for effective support systems is critical. The dashboard analyzes employee usage of Retail Trust wellbeing services to identify trends and provide actionable insights.

Quantifying the Return on Wellbeing Investment

A key feature of the dashboard is its ability to quantify the economic benefits of mental health initiatives. By calculating savings from reduced absenteeism and improved productivity, it makes a strong financial case for investing in staff wellbeing. Research indicates that every £1 invested in mental health support can yield a return of £5.30. The platform also leverages the Wellby standard, suggesting that a one-point increase in life satisfaction could inject £13,000 into the economy, underscoring the societal advantages of these programs.

Driving Positive Change and Future Impact in Retail

Early feedback from participating retailers highlights the dashboard's effectiveness. FatFace found it provided valuable insights into employee sentiment and engagement with resources, particularly for remote staff. Next similarly noted its ability to offer actionable data on staff wellbeing needs, fostering a more supportive workplace.

As the retail industry adapts to the post-pandemic environment, sustaining a healthy and motivated workforce remains a challenge. The Retail Trust's happiness dashboard, however, represents a significant advancement, utilizing AI to improve staff wellbeing and prove the worth of these initiatives. This development is a crucial step toward a more sustainable and employee-focused retail sector, potentially setting a new standard for other industries.

For more information, please goto: https://www.retailtrust.org.uk/news/the-retail-trust-turns-to-ai-to-help-improve-staff-mental-health-and-prove-value-of-wellbeing-strategies/1625.article