Companies House has recently been awarded the highest-level accreditation from Investors in People for its commitment to staff wellbeing.

Its Platinum award recognises the organisation’s efforts to support employees’ social, physical and psychological wellbeing. The achievement followed detailed assessments, including staff surveys, interviews, and reviews of workplace culture.

What can other businesses learn from this success?

Even if you don’t have the same resources as Companies House, there are practical, low-cost steps you can take to improve staff wellbeing.

1. Listen to staff feedback

Employees who feel listened to are more likely to feel valued. For a smaller business, this might simply mean regular one-to-one conversations.
You could also consider short, anonymous surveys using free online tools, or introduce a scheme for staff to put forward ideas. The key is to act on feedback wherever possible.

2. Support physical wellbeing

Improving health at work doesn’t have to mean costly gym memberships or large-scale programmes. Affordable approaches could include encouraging breaks away from screens, or offering fresh fruit or healthy snacks in staff areas.

3. Prioritise mental wellbeing

Small businesses can support mental health by creating an open culture where it’s acceptable to talk about challenges.
Managers can be trained to recognise early signs of stress or burnout. It is also helpful to signpost free resources such as Mind, ACAS, or NHS wellbeing services.

4. Build a positive culture

Workplace wellbeing is closely linked to company culture. Recognition, respect and flexibility can make a significant difference at every level.

  • Celebrate staff achievements, however small, with genuine recognition.

  • Communicate openly about business changes so employees feel informed and respected.

  • Consider flexible working hours to help staff balance work and life commitments, encouraging greater positivity and engagement.

Why looking after staff benefits the business

A focus on wellbeing is not just a “nice to have.” Even if your organisation is on a different scale to Companies House, the principle remains: investing time and effort into employee wellbeing brings tangible business benefits.
Supporting staff in this way can help retain talent, reduce absence, boost productivity, and build loyalty and trust – all of which contribute to long-term business success.