A recent survey highlights the growing intrusion of work into personal life for many employees, signaling a need for action.
- 80% of employees are found to work beyond contractual hours, cutting into personal time significantly.
- Work-related emails are often checked outside business hours by 68%, indicating blurred lines between work and home life.
- Half of the workforce has had to change or cancel personal plans due to work commitments, further underscoring the issue.
- There is overwhelming support (79%) for the right not to be contacted outside of working hours, reflecting a demand for clear boundaries.
The recent survey conducted by YouGov for Purbeck Insurance Services reveals the extent of work’s encroachment into personal lives. It indicates that a significant 80% of employees have worked beyond their contractual hours, with a notable 50% acknowledging they have done so on several occasions. This trend is particularly prevalent among individuals aged 25-49, a demographic likely managing family responsibilities.
Furthermore, 68% of participants admit to checking work emails outside of official working hours, with 39% indicating this is a frequent occurrence. The age group 25-49 emerges as the most affected, with 75% routinely engaging in this practice. Women appear to be slightly more impacted than men in this regard.
Moreover, the survey points out that 50% of workers have had to alter or cancel personal days off due to work commitments. Women again report higher instances (52%) compared to men (49%). Additionally, the survey highlights a concerning trend where 37% of respondents have not fully utilized their allocated annual leave, with people in Scotland and those aged 50-64 being less likely to take their full holiday entitlement.
A strong sentiment in favor of establishing boundaries is evident, as 79% of those surveyed back the right to disconnect from work communications outside working hours. This support is particularly striking among women, with 83% expressing approval. Notably, only 13% of respondents oppose such a measure, predominantly within the 65+ age category.
Purbeck Insurance Services, which commissioned the survey, underscores the unsustainable nature of continual work beyond regular hours. The findings advocate for businesses to achieve a balance that respects employees’ personal time. Todd Davison, Managing Director of Purbeck Insurance Services, highlights the necessity for bespoke workplace policies or contractual changes to address these challenges, while cautioning against imposing excessive regulations on small businesses.
The survey underscores the urgent need for clearer work-life boundaries to prevent burnout and ensure sustainable working conditions.
