Why SMEs Need a Smarter Approach to Group Income Protection

At Corpad Employee Benefits Ltd, we understand that the UK’s business strength lies in its smaller enterprises. With over 5.5 million private sector businesses—the vast majority being micro, small, and medium-sized—SMEs are the driving force of our economy. But they’re also the most exposed when it comes to sickness absence and operational disruption.

Even a short period of absence can have a major impact on productivity and continuity. With the average cost of sickness absence per employee reaching over £13,000 for short-term and £20,000 for long-term absences, the financial risk to smaller firms is significant.

That’s why more SMEs are turning to Group Income Protection (GIP)—not just as a financial safety net, but as a proactive tool for employee wellbeing.

The Power of Early Intervention

MetLife’s recent insights echo what we’ve long known: the greatest value of GIP lies in its early intervention services.

• 96% of employees had a positive outcome when support began within four weeks of absence.
• Early action helps prevent long-term sickness, aids faster recovery, and maintains business momentum.
• For many SMEs, using a limited payment term (such as 2 or 5 years) makes cover more affordable and keeps the focus on prevention and wellbeing.

Early intervention is about more than just managing absence—it’s about protecting people and productivity alike.

Why Act Now

While the government is exploring ways to reduce workplace absenteeism, SMEs have the opportunity to take proactive steps today. Implementing a well-structured GIP policy—one that emphasises early intervention—can strengthen workforce resilience, improve morale, and help ensure business continuity.

The Corpad Difference

Corpad Employee Benefits Ltd specialises in supporting Micro to SME businesses. Our focus has always been on this sector, and we pride ourselves on offering a personal, hands-on approach that ensures solutions are tailored to your size, structure, and culture.

We take the time to understand your business—how you operate, where your pressures lie, and what kind of support will truly make a difference. Our team will:

• Research and compare early intervention and support services, not just price.
• Provide a range of benefit levels and payment terms to suit your budget.
• Help communicate the value of wellbeing and early intervention across your organisation.

We believe protection should feel practical, personal, and purposeful. Our mission is to help smaller businesses access the same quality of care and continuity as larger firms—without losing the close partnership and personal service that make SMEs unique.

Corpad Employee Benefits Ltd – Practical Protection, Personal Approach.