Ryan FowlerA new survey conducted by Reward Gateway, the world’s largest employee discounts scheme provider, has unveiled that nearly two-thirds (63%) of UK workers are advocating for a pay rise amidst the escalating cost-of-living crisis. This outcry for better compensation is coupled with alarming levels of employee burnout, reported by nearly a third (30%) of workers, and widespread misery at work, affecting one in five (20%).
The survey sought to gauge the sentiments of British workers regarding their current economic situation, revealing a concerning landscape of workplace stress, loneliness, and anxiety. Over a third (36%) of respondents reported feeling stressed, nearly a fifth (19%) described feelings of loneliness at work, and more than a quarter (27%) are experiencing anxiety, indicating a dire need for enhanced employer support for mental health.
The predominant cause of burnout among employees is identified as excessive workload (49%), with a significant majority (59%) feeling underappreciated or unrecognized by their superiors. Furthermore, nearly half (49%) of the workforce feels a lack of belonging in their workplace, with reasons ranging from having little in common with colleagues (28%) to experiencing bullying (10%).
In response to these challenges, 60% of employees are urging their employers to place a higher priority on financial well-being. A substantial proportion (43%) are seeking more rewards and recognition, and over half (55%) believe that their financial well-being is inadequately supported by their employers. The dissatisfaction is so profound that over the past six months, more than half (57%) have contemplated leaving their jobs for new opportunities.
Nebel Crowhurst, chief people officer at Reward Gateway, said: “British workers are struggling. They are grappling with mental challenges, overwhelming workloads, and are experiencing burnout. Moreover, the lack of adequate support during the cost-of-living crisis is contributing to a grim outlook for British workers. It’s clear that workers need help. While pay increases are part of the solution, a comprehensive support package encompassing rewards, subsidies, benefits, and appreciation is essential to aid employees during these trying times.”
