A recent survey highlights the intrusion of work on personal life for many UK employees.
- 80% of surveyed employees work beyond their contractual hours regularly.
- A significant 68% check work emails outside standard working hours.
- Half of the respondents altered or cancelled a day off for work reasons.
- The right to disconnect is overwhelmingly supported by the workforce.
A recent survey has revealed the extent to which work encroaches on personal time for UK employees. The YouGov survey, commissioned by Purbeck Insurance Services, indicates that 80% of people have worked beyond their contractual hours, with those aged 25-49 most likely to do so. This age group, often balancing work and young families, especially experiences this pressure.
Checking work emails outside of business hours is a common occurrence, with 68% of respondents doing so regularly. This habit is particularly prevalent among individuals aged 25-49, with 75% admitting to this practice. Additionally, women are more likely than men to check emails during personal time, indicating a gender disparity in work-life balance.
Strikingly, 50% of participants have either changed or cancelled a day off due to work obligations. This trend is slightly more common among women than men, pointing to persistent gender imbalances in managing work commitments and personal time.
A concerning 1 in 10 individuals regularly forgoes some of their annual leave, risking burnout. The survey indicates that people in Scotland are less likely to utilise their full holiday allowance, a trend also seen among men and those aged 50-64.
There’s a strong consensus among workers about the need for the right to disconnect from work communications outside working hours, with 79% in support. Women, in particular, voiced stronger support than men for this right, highlighting its importance in achieving a healthier work-life balance.
Todd Davison, Managing Director of Purbeck Insurance Services, emphasized the encroachment of work on personal life, especially among women, warning of potential burnout if adequate time off is not observed. He also acknowledged the challenges faced by small business owners who might find it impossible to completely switch off from work responsibilities. Despite this, the need to address work done outside of business hours and encourage full use of annual leave remains crucial.
The survey underscores the urgent need for policies that protect work-life balance in the evolving landscape of employment.
