Insurance company Ageas launches wellbeing 'bot' to support its employees during pandemic

Ageas Insurance has introduced a wellbeing ‘bot’ to support its thousands of employees across the country with their physical and mental health.

The AI 'creature' acts as a personal wellbeing buddy and sends people virtual nudges that can benefit their health, for example, reminding them to take a screen break or have a catch up with a colleague. The bot, which was created in-house by Ageas, also talks to employees about everything from staying hydrated to conditions such as seasonal affective disorder.

It was developed in response to the pandemic, which has seen around 90% of Ageas’ employees working from home since March last year.

Lyn Nicholls, HR director, explained: “Looking after our health and wellbeing is more important than ever. To help our people take even better care of themselves, we’ve developed a friendly AI creature, who will act as their own personal well-being bot.

“Of course, we still have a range of human support available, including our mental health first aiders and employee assistance programme. We’re pleased to add this new initiative to our growing list of ways we’re supporting our people.”

Employee, Steve Croucher, who also works as one of Ageas’ mental health first aiders, said: “I think it’s a brilliant idea. We all need to be motivated with new ideas of how we can look after our physical and mental health. We may have started off this pandemic time with good intentions and habits but, for some of us, those may have gone out the window so it’s great to have regular reminders.”

The mental wellbeing of staff has been a particular focus for Ageas during the Covid-19 pandemic.

As well as providing access to mental health first aiders and launching its wellbeing bot, Ageas has organised everything from fitness challenges and leadership wellbeing webinars to online groups for parents and wellbeing guides.

The insurance company has not furloughed any of its employees and continues to support those who work from home as well as the small number of people who are in its Covid-secure offices.