The UK continues to face a rise in the cost of living. According to official sources, in November 2025, 61% of adults in Great Britain reported an increase in their cost of living compared with the previous month. Of those whose cost of living increased, 95% said it was because food shopping had increased in price, while 68% said it was because gas and electricity bills had increased in price.
This is a tough situation for employers, who are dealing with their own cost pressures. Of course, fair and equal pay remains a priority, but more businesses are now turning to enhanced employee benefits as a practical way to give employees some much-needed financial support.
One employee benefit in the spotlight right now, are employer-paid health care cash plans. Cash plans are a highly affordable alternative to private medical insurance, giving employees money back on their everyday health care costs. Plans – such as Handy Health Cover – provide an accessible way for businesses to offer health and wellbeing support to every employee, from just a few pounds per month, with money back on:
- Dental check-ups and treatment
- Eyes tests, glasses/contact lenses
- Physio, sports massage, chiropractic treatment
- Reflexology, acupuncture, ear wax removal
- Health screening, consultant fees and diagnostic tests plus more
Cash plans are quick to set up and easy to manage and often include an employee assistance programme (EAP). The optional EAP with Handy Health Cover provides support, assistance and counselling on a range of issues, including stress and childcare, family and relationship matters, health concerns, and – crucially given the current cost of living pressures – financial worries such as debt management, benefits, tax, budgeting and 121 financial coaching.
What’s more, when you work with us, employees have access to additional benefits including a 24-hour GP service with telephone consultations, private prescription service, online GP consultations and medically approved health information.
One of the key benefits of health care cash plans is their accessibility. They’re a cost-effective option for employees in any role. Whether they are home, field or office based the plans can support their physical, financial and emotional wellbeing. For more information about the options available for your business, email hello@handyhealth.co.uk or visit handyhealth.co.uk.
