A significant portion of the British workforce faces challenges during the summer, with over 25 percent of employees reporting difficulties in maintaining motivation as the temperature rises, according to a recent survey.
The warmer weather and the lure of outdoor activities appear to be key contributors to the “summer slump,” a common workplace phenomenon. For many, the summer season brings more than just sunshine—it brings extra stress and heavier workloads.
Contrary to popular belief, summer is not always a time to relax. Over a third of Brits reported that their workload actually increases during the summer months. This is often due to colleagues taking time off for holidays, which leaves those in the office to pick up the slack. The combination of additional responsibilities and the desire to enjoy the weather outside makes this season particularly challenging for many workers.
Summer Breaks Surge as Motivation Wanes
In response to these rising workloads and waning motivation, 38 percent of workers admitted to taking more breaks during the summer. The need to step away from the desk more frequently reflects the struggle to maintain focus in the face of increasing demands. Meanwhile, a minority (22%) reported taking fewer breaks, perhaps in an attempt to power through the pressure, although experts suggest that regular pauses are crucial to productivity and well-being, especially during the warmer months.
Summer Holidays Spike Amongst Brits
Unsurprisingly, 42 percent of Brits take more holidays in the summer, with the season offering an ideal opportunity to unwind. This trend is especially prevalent among families, as school holidays encourage time away. However, despite the importance of taking time off, many workers struggle to fully disconnect. A previous survey revealed that 25 percent of Brits continue to respond to work emails while on holiday, with more than half replying to important messages despite being out of the office.
Lack of Summer Perks Disappoints Workers
While the pressures of summer build, a striking 70 percent of respondents revealed that their companies do not offer any summer-specific benefits or flexible work options. This comes despite the growing focus on employee well-being and work-life balance. For those fortunate enough to receive summer perks, 27.5 percent acknowledged their employers’ efforts, but there remains a significant gap in how companies are addressing the unique challenges of the season.
A Call for Flexible Summer Schedules
Nearly half of British workers (46%) expressed a desire for a summer schedule shake-up, favouring earlier start times, earlier finishes, or flexible working hours. The push for greater flexibility highlights the challenges posed by the hotter months, as employees seek to balance professional demands with the need to enjoy the season. However, the workforce remains divided, with 27 percent content with their current schedules and 25 percent indifferent to any changes.
Outdoor Work Gains Popularity
With the appeal of the outdoors growing stronger during the summer, almost one in three Brits reported working outside at least occasionally. Whether setting up a laptop in the garden or finding a quiet spot in a park, these workers are taking advantage of the warm weather to escape the office environment. However, not everyone is able to enjoy this flexibility—44 percent of respondents said they don’t work outdoors due to the nature of their jobs or a lack of suitable spaces.
As summer heats up, many British workers face a unique set of challenges, from declining motivation and increased workloads to a lack of summer-specific perks. While some have adapted by working outdoors or adjusting their schedules, others remain confined by traditional office routines. The survey highlights the growing demand for flexibility and summer benefits, suggesting that companies might do well to rethink their approach to employee well-being during the hotter months.
Amelia Brand is the Editor for HRreview, and host of the HR in Review podcast series. With a Master’s degree in Legal and Political Theory, her particular interests within HR include employment law, DE&I, and wellbeing within the workplace. Prior to working with HRreview, Amelia was Sub-Editor of a magazine, and Editor of the Environmental Justice Project at University College London, writing and overseeing articles into UCL’s weekly newsletter. Her previous academic work has focused on philosophy, politics and law, with a special focus on how artificial intelligence will feature in the future.
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