Workplace wellness programs have become an increasingly common topic in IELTS Writing Task 2 examinations, particularly under the broader themes of employee welfare and corporate responsibility. This topic has appeared multiple times in recent years, especially in countries like India, China, and South Korea where work-life balance remains a significant concern.
Similar to discussions about mental health initiatives in corporate settings, this subject tests candidates’ ability to analyze the benefits and drawbacks of workplace policies.
Task Analysis
Some people believe that companies should be required by law to provide wellness programs for their employees. Others think it should be optional. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
This question requires candidates to:
- Examine arguments for mandatory workplace wellness programs
- Consider reasons against making such programs compulsory
- Present and justify their personal stance
Model Answer (Band 8.5)
There is ongoing debate about whether workplace wellness initiatives should be legally mandated or left to employers’ discretion. While I understand the arguments for both positions, I believe that basic wellness programs should be mandatory, though companies should have flexibility in their implementation.
Those who support mandatory wellness programs argue that they are essential for protecting employee health and productivity. Research has consistently shown that such programs reduce absenteeism, lower healthcare costs, and improve staff morale. Furthermore, when these initiatives are optional, many companies, especially smaller ones, might skip them to cut costs, potentially compromising their workers’ wellbeing. This relates to how should governments promote work-life balance through legislation, as both approaches aim to protect employee welfare through regulatory measures.
However, opponents contend that making wellness programs compulsory could create unnecessary financial burdens for businesses. Small enterprises might struggle to afford comprehensive wellness initiatives, potentially forcing them to reduce wages or lay off staff. Additionally, companies in different industries have varying needs and resources, making a one-size-fits-all approach impractical.
In my view, while complete flexibility might lead to negligence, strict standardization could be counterproductive. Instead, legislation should require basic wellness provisions like ergonomic workspaces and stress management resources, while allowing companies to tailor additional programs to their specific circumstances. This balanced approach would ensure minimum standards of employee welfare while maintaining business viability.
Benefits of workplace wellness programs showing increased productivity
Model Answer (Band 6.5)
These days, many people discuss if companies must provide wellness programs by law. There are different opinions about this topic, and I will explain both sides and give my thoughts.
Some people think wellness programs should be required by law. They say these programs help workers stay healthy and work better. When companies have to provide these programs, all workers can benefit from them. Also, it stops companies from ignoring worker health just to save money.
On the other hand, some believe it should be the company’s choice. Making these programs required could cost too much money, especially for small businesses. Different companies have different needs, so they should choose what programs work best for them.
I think the best answer is somewhere in the middle. Companies should have to provide basic health programs, but they can choose what extra things to add. This way, workers get some help staying healthy, but companies don’t spend too much money.
Key Vocabulary
- wellness initiatives (n) /ˈwelnəs ɪˈnɪʃətɪvz/ – programs promoting health and wellbeing
- mandatory (adj) /ˈmændətɔri/ – required by law
- discretion (n) /dɪˈskreʃən/ – freedom to decide
- absenteeism (n) /ˌæbsənˈtiːɪzəm/ – practice of regularly staying away from work
- ergonomic (adj) /ˌɜːrɡəˈnɑːmɪk/ – designed for efficiency and comfort
- counterproductive (adj) /ˌkaʊntərprəˈdʌktɪv/ – having the opposite of the desired effect
- standardization (n) /ˌstændərdaɪˈzeɪʃən/ – the process of making things uniform
Consider practicing with these similar topics:
- Should companies provide free fitness facilities for employees?
- Do workplace wellness programs actually improve productivity?
- Should mental health support be mandatory in workplaces?
Share your practice essays in the comments section for feedback and discussion!
