Unum UK has reported a 97% return-to-work success rate for beneficiaries of its group income protection rehabilitation service.
The employee benefits provider made the announcement in an emailed release, stating that it was able to set a new success rate record despite a 35% surge in referral rates.
It noted that part of this surge was due to an uptick in rehabilitation referrals for mental health conditions.
According to Unum, nearly half (45%) of all its rehabilitation referrals were related to mental health, indicating a 37% increase from the previous year.
Additionally, the Help@hand app saw an increase in the number users seeking mental health support, with mental health concerns accounting for 37% of all service bookings.
Paula Coffey, director of claims, rehabilitation and medical services, said the company has “significantly increased” its support and training for line managers when it comes to helping businesses recognise “signs of distress.”
She said this strategy places “particular emphasis on the importance of early referrals” and how this may enable a successful return-to-work or even prevent absence from the outset.
“That’s because our experience shows us that a successful return to work is centred on truly understanding the individual, and where we draw on our expertise to support people,” Coffey added. “It’s an ethos that is central to our company values and why we always take the time to individualise the support we provide our customers.”
Unum UK’s data also highlighted broader health challenges amid the ongoing strain on the NHS.
The company reported that cancer is the most common reason for claims across all its group risk products, including critical illness cover (69%), life insurance (39%), and income protection (30%).
Additionally, it saw a notable increase in dental claims, with payments rising by 29% to exceed £31 million in 2023.
Overall, Unum said it paid out over £471 million in claims last year. This includes £229 million for income protection, £160 million for life insurance, and £43 million for critical illness cover.
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