Employers have been urged to do more for their workers’ health to help slash the millions of days lost to “sickies.”

Health minister Lord Howe told hundreds of delegates at the second Wellbeing Symposium, held at the Kent Showground, that employee ill-health cost the nation more than £100 million a year.

More than 23 million days were lost to work-related ill-health.

Physical inactivity was the UK’s fourth largest early killer, after high blood pressure, smoking and obesity.

Some 70,000 premature deaths could be avoided every year if UK diets matched national guidelines.

England had the highest obesity rate in Europe, Lord Howe said.

The construction industry suffered from a higher mortality rate than other sectors.

It was male-dominated, highly mobile and hard to reach to improve lifestyle behaviours.

While larger firms were leading the way in addressing the problems, more needed to be done by small and medium enterprises (SMEs).

It was important to understand mental health issues, to recognise and respond to stress, apply practical guidance, and “make reasonable workplace adjustments.”

The government’s Public Health Responsibility Deal encourages businesses to sign up to 10 action pledges.

“Many of you already have excellent schemes and initiatives in place for your employees,” Lord Howe said, “ but formalising that commitment would send a powerful message for your organisation, your staff, your peers and local community that should enhance your own brand and image.

"I encourage you to sign up to maybe just one of the health at work pledges.”

Firms making the pledge are given a certificate signed by the Health Secretary and can use a strapline on their advertising and attend events.

“Public health is everyone’s responsibility and we’re challenging you as employers to play your part by supporting the health and wellbeing of your employees and helping them to make healthier choices for themselves and their families.”

The event, sponsored by Golding Vision – part of the Maidstone-based housing association - was organised by Wellbeing People and Pillory Barn Creative.

Ben McGannon, of Wellbeing People, said Kent was leading the way in the wellbeing debate.

He added caring more for staff gave a bottom line return.

His company Edgar’s Water, based in Marden, have halved sickness absence by adopting radical policies and signing up to the public health deal.

Miranda Chapman, director of Pillory Barn, added that a wellbeing strategy boosted staff loyalty, retention and resilience.

The third Wellbeing Symposium will be held on November 19 next year.