HR Heartbeat: workplace incidents, Gen Z and mental health, and reskilling older workers

Welcome to HR Heartbeat, where we take a look at the week’s most pressing HR and employment law stories. With over 18 years’ experience in employee relations, I give my opinion on current trends impacting your business, as well as my own personal commentary on all things HR and legal.

Nearly half of workers report incidents or illness in the workplace

44% of workers in the UK and Ireland have reported that they or a relative have experienced a workplace accident or work-related illness, according to a 2025 survey by EcoOnline. 64% of the incidents reported were related to stress.

The message for business owners? Wellness in the workplace is about more than an accident book and first aid kits. As well as thorough risk assessments and training about hazards and risks, you should make sure your working environment is supportive and safe.  

BrightSafe, our end-to-end health & safety management system, protects employers and employees with real-time reporting and CPD-accredited training.

Gen Z workers value mental health over financial wealth

In a recent study across ten countries, 51% of workers aged 28 and under ranked health as the greatest indicator of success, above work and family relationships. But what does that mean for employers?

It’s certainly going to change recruitment strategy: how are employers going to attract talent that doesn’t care about career advancement or long-term job security? Over two-thirds of respondents said they want to work for an organisation that shares their values, so now’s the time to show your staff you value them.

An Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) can be a great wellbeing tool, offering life coaching, financial coaching or even support to quit smoking. You can also consider offering employee perks and benefits through an exclusive platform like Bright Exchange.

‘New reskilling era’ for older workers

And while we’re talking about the generation gap, let’s think about older workers. The CIPD has warned that older workers are at risk of becoming unemployable due to major changes in the labour market. These include the rise of AI, the transition to net zero, and changing demographics, which are driving demand for new skills.

There has been a rise of 40% in employment of 50-64 year olds since the year 2000. But less than half feel their role offers room for development. Ongoing training and reskilling may be a good way to keep experienced staff and redeploy them into new roles.

And that’s a wrap from me. Tune in next time for my take on the latest headlines and employment law stories, helping keep your business ahead!