Simplyhealth, a UK-based member of the International Cooperative and Mutual Insurance Federation (ICMIF), has announced the launch of a new digital mental health service in partnership with Spectrum.Life (Ireland). The service aims to provide fast and accessible mental health support to all Simplyhealth’s 2.5 million customers across the United Kingdom, addressing the growing mental health challenges in the workplace.
Mental health issues have become one of the leading causes of sickness absence, with Simplyhealth research revealing that 21% of employees took time off for mental health problems in the past year, averaging nearly six days of absence per employee. In response to this increasing concern, Simplyhealth’s latest offering enhances its Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) by providing 24/7 digital access to qualified mental health professionals via platforms such as WhatsApp, video, and a dedicated mobile app.
Tina Kennedy, Director of Product, Simplyhealth (United Kingdom), said: “We are passionate about reducing barriers for our members seeking mental health support. Digital-first healthcare solutions provide quick access that fits into their lives, helping to prevent issues from escalating and supporting workplace performance.”
The digital mental health service allows users to choose their preferred counsellor based on factors such as availability, expertise, and personal preferences, ensuring a personalised experience. Users can book appointments, access brief intervention counselling, and manage their schedules directly through the platform. This partnership also opens access to over 2,350 accredited counsellors and psychotherapists, ensuring widespread availability of support.
Simplyhealth’s collaboration with Spectrum.Life comes at a time when waiting lists with the National Health Service (NHS) for mental health services have reached up to 18 weeks. The new digital service addresses this issue by offering immediate, 24/7 mental health support, a crucial development given the rising demand for accessible mental health care. Over the past year, Spectrum.Life has seen a significant increase in digital mental health consultations, with a 55% rise in video counselling and a 36% growth in WhatsApp usage.
Stephen Costello, Chief Executive and Co-founder, Spectrum.Life (Ireland), expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership: “Together with Simplyhealth, we are offering comprehensive, accessible solutions that empower individuals to take control of their mental health when they need it most.”
This initiative aligns with Simplyhealth’s ongoing commitment to improving health and wellbeing across the UK. By embracing digital solutions, Simplyhealth and Spectrum.Life aim to help reduce absenteeism, enhance workplace performance, and ultimately improve access to critical mental health support for millions of people.
Simplyhealth has a long-standing history of supporting the health and wellbeing of its customers, dating back over 140 years. The organisation continues to lead the way in providing affordable healthcare through its innovative health plans, further cementing its reputation as a trusted provider of health and wellbeing services.
