Our survey of 101* Learning and Development professionals at World of Learning showed that L&D professionals believe mental health and wellbeing is the most important eLearning topic for the next 12 months.

This is closely followed by stress management training for employees, as nearly nine in 10 (88%) employers said they are worried about how the cost-of-living crisis is affecting employees.

These areas are ranked as more important than diversity and inclusion, cybersecurity, health and safety, and sustainability training.

However, half of those surveyed (50%) revealed that their learning and development budgets would not change despite the current economic climate putting increased pressure on businesses to support employees further. One in five (21%) stated that a reduction in their budget would be one of the biggest challenges affecting learning and development in the workplace.

Regarding specific training to help employees navigate the cost of living, almost two-thirds (65%) said this isn’t something they have yet given. But half (50%) are considering implementing practical training such as financial planning.

Worryingly, the results reveal an underinvestment in training line managers. Just 27% of L&D professionals said they plan to provide line managers with training linked to the rising cost of living, such as helping managers to spot the signs of those in their teams who may be struggling.

 Chris Chappell, Head of Content at VinciWorks, said:

“Given the current economic situation we find ourselves in, it’s unsurprising that mental health support and stress management are topping the agenda for learning and development priorities.

“Businesses must support colleagues as best as possible to maintain a contented and productive workforce, but many still have not acted. Whilst good rates of pay and benefits schemes are key to helping people through the cost-of-living crisis, there is much more we can do to support employees, and training plays a key role in this.”

Employee engagement with L&D also remains a big challenge. 27% of those surveyed revealed this is currently their primary obstacle. Most HR and training professionals are trying to overcome this by asking employees for written feedback on training, with 77% conducting post-training evaluation – only 12% request verbal feedback.

Click here for free resources to support around the cost of living.

*VinciWorks surveyed 101 respondents at the World of Learning 2022 event on 10th and 11th October 2022. World of Learning is attended by senior L&D decision makers.