Pensions - Articles - Broadstone comments on Steve Webb's scepticism

 Robin Watkins, Risk and Flexible Benefits Consultant at Broadstone, says:

 “Steve Webb’s scepticism on the Government subsidising Income Protection policies is interesting, but as he implies, it is likely to be the best employers who offer the protection to their key asset: their staff.

  

 “At a corporate level, skills shortages in many industries are making employers look at staff motivation, and while salary is a key consideration when it comes to a change of employer (or remaining with an existing employer), our own research has shown that the provision of benefits, including those related to sickness absence, are potentially more important to many, whether fully company funded or not.

  

 “The paternalistic aspect leaves a feel-good factor within a business too, but at a time where responsibility and self sufficiency are being pushed onto employers - and in turn employees - it is arguably a natural progression to consider offering this type of benefit.”