Over a third (37%) of workers highlighting that going to the office makes them feel stressed, worried or anxious.
For half (49%), this is due to apprehension about harming their work-life balance.
This is according to new research by Slack, which also found that the same number (49%) highlight associated costs, such as travel and food as a stressor—at a time when almost 9 in 10 British adults are reporting a rise in their cost of living (ONS).
The rise in the cost-of-living is expected to sit around a 10 percent increase.
With the cost-of-living crisis in full swing, it is now more important than ever to consider both the mental and financial wellbeing of your employees.
A four-day week and hybrid working
The study found the majority (70%) of UK believe implementing a four-day working week would improve their health and wellbeing at work.
The findings for hybrid working are similar, with a large proportion of UK employees (44%) believing this flexible remote-office model of working is best for their mental health and wellbeing. It would also significantly cut down their commuting costs.
Despite this, only a small number of employees (28%) have a free choice over if and when they work in the office.
How can a healthy hybrid work environment be created?
To create a strong hybrid working environment and nurture mental wellbeing, the study revealed technology plays a major role.
Over two thirds (69%) of employees agree technology is a help at work, not a hindrance. Also, 62 percent say they are able to work more flexibly thanks to technology.
Specifically, 55 percent claim that hybrid work would not be productive or efficient without using a business messaging app.
What should employers be doing?
“Businesses must take action to avoid a wellbeing crisis as employees return to offices. Transparent communication and responding to feedback from their employees is key. Hybrid working, facilitated by technology, can also help employees and businesses build healthier workplaces, empowering teams to work flexibly while still maintaining the human connections we all need to flourish,” suggests NHS GP and TV Doctor, Dr Sara Kayat.
Head of Customer Success EMEA at Slack, Chris Mills, highlights that an “employee who is cared for, and supported will be inspired to do their best work. It’s positive to see UK employees highlighting that hybrid work and technology has an important part to play in their wellbeing.”
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.
