TUC warns of record work-related stress across UK workplaces
The TUC’s 15th biennial survey of more than 2,700 union safety representatives found that almost eight in 10 (79%) cited stress as a major concern in their workplace.
Disciplinary cases routinely drag on for weeks, research finds
A WorkNest poll of HR professionals found that 53% of disciplinary cases exceed four weeks, with over a third (34%) typically lasting between four and eight weeks.
Side hustle searches surge as workers seek extra income for 2026, finds YuLife
Research found that in December 2025 alone, searches for “side hustle” and “second job” were made a combined 56,000 times.
Women feel unsafe and embarrassed at work due to ill-fitting PPE, GMB warns
More than 70% of women surveyed by GMB say ill-fitting PPE designed for men’s bodies is leaving them unsafe, uncomfortable or unable to do their jobs, prompting renewed calls for legal reform and inclusive standards.
Report urges urgent Government action to protect UK ceramics sector
A new worker-led report warns that without swift intervention on energy costs and regulation, the UK ceramics industry risks long-term decline.
IT and technology hiring surges as businesses respond to AI growth
New research from Robert Half shows more than half of UK employers plan to expand permanent IT and technology teams in early 2026, as demand for AI, cyber and data skills accelerates.
Employers plan headcount growth into 2026 as interim and contract hiring gathers pace
New research from Robert Half shows nearly half of UK employers expect to increase permanent headcount in early 2026, with finance, technology and legal roles leading demand.
One in 15 small business owners plan to work on Christmas Day, research finds
Research from MoneySuperMarket found 51% plan to close for the festive break, while one in five (20%) said they feel guilty taking time off.
30% of people feel uncomfortable talking about pensions with family – Standard Life
47% of people aged 55 to 65 had spoken about pensions with family, while this dropped to 18% among 18 to 24s and 29% for 35 to 44s.
Only 9% of organisations personalise compliance training, finds VinciWorks
Most still used general training for all staff, with 32% providing the same material to most employees and 40% tailoring it by department or role.
67% of employees want a flexible company vehicle, SIXT finds
Use cases for such a vehicle included long business trips (42%) and when a personal vehicle is undergoing maintenance (40%).
Festive work pressures disrupting sleep for frontline staff, experts warn
Research from MattressNextDay highlighted how prolonged standing, repetitive lifting and long periods of driving are affecting workers’ bodies across different sectors.
