44% of Gen Z workers distracted at work due to financial stress

44% of Gen Z workers are distracted at work due to financial stress, research from Boostworks has revealed.

The survey of over one thousand 18 to 28-year-olds found that Gen Z workers are facing significant financial strain, and are increasingly turning to their employers for practical support.

While nearly half (44%) said financial worries distract them at work, 19% admitted that they worry constantly and struggle to concentrate.

Nearly 11% reported having missed work altogether due to financial stress.

The data highlighted a worrying picture of financial fragility among the UK’s youngest employees, as less than half (45%) said they feel fairly compensated amid the rising cost of living, and just one in three (32%) have £1,000 or more in emergency savings.

In addition, 55% said are considering a side hustle or second job, with 19% already working on one.

While financial strain is widespread, Gen Z is also clear about what would help.

Almost 60% already rely on workplace vouchers or rewards to assist with day-to-day costs, and two thirds (74%) would welcome access to employer-provided financial education and planning.

When asked what types of support would help them feel more financially secure, over half (55%) said they preferred either shopping discounts or cashback or reward points redeemable for vouchers or products.

In addition, 35% said they would welcome employer contributions to savings or investment accounts, and perhaps unsurprisingly, 50% still place high value on performance-based bonuses.

The research also suggested that many Gen Z workers feel pressured to attend the office despite limited incentives.

A quarter (25%) said they feel compelled to come in ‘unnecessarily’, while 34% believe they are not adequately rewarded for doing so.

Additionally, nearly a third (28%) reported that they had been offered new perks or benefits to support their return to the office, however 12% said they weren’t appealing.

When asked what would encourage them to come into the office more often, the most popular responses were free food and bonuses (47%), followed by additional holidays (45%), flexible office hours (37%), and commuting allowances (35%).

Jo Werker, CEO at Boostworks, said: “This research paints a stark picture of the financial pressures facing Gen Z as they enter the world of work, but it also gives employers a roadmap.

“Yes, this generation is facing real economic strain, but they are also clear about what would help: practical financial support, flexibility, and fair recognition.

“With an estimated 400,000 GCSE and 300,000 A-level students expected to transition into work or training this summer, employers have a real opportunity to engage the next intake by providing tangible support that makes a genuine difference to their economic stability.”