British workers want free gyms, private healthcare and a day off on their birthday, says study

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Private healthcare, an extra day’s holiday on their birthday and free gym membership are among the perks Britons want from employers, according to a new poll.

Researchers surveyed 2,000 office workers to identify the benefits they would like to see from their place of work – which included flexible working hours, a nice desk and staff discounts.

Other things desired were company holidays away, being able to make personal calls at work and having space to be creative.

However, more than half of those polled don’t think there is such a thing as the perfect employer and 68 per cent believe their current workplace lacks perks.

“It really highlighted the importance of making the right decision when it comes to ordering office items as 39 per cent of workers agreed that good quality office supplies can help show that bosses value staff," said Helen Moran, a manager at Lyreco, which commissioned the poll.

The research also found that seven in 10 have considered quitting their job at some point during the past 12 months.

Almost half of office workers regret accepting their current job and just a third plan to stay in their role for the rest of their career.

The top things most likely to make those polled quit are nightmare commutes, overwhelming workloads and an intimidating boss. Other reasons include being underpaid, bullying work colleagues and a big lottery win.

The research identified the top things which would make those polled happier at work. This included more emphasis on employee health and well-being, and changing the look of an office.

Almost half think good quality office furniture can help make workers feel more valued at work, though office surroundings can also make workers envious of their colleagues.

The most likely causes of desk envy include co-workers who get to sit next to the window, those who have more privacy around their workstations and those who have more space.

The study also explored office decor and how it can boost productivity and found landscape photography, artwork and prints featuring inspirational quotes make a positive impact.

SWNS.