Staff shortages stopping 21% from taking time off

Staff shortages and reduced resources are preventing workers from taking much-needed time off.

In fact, research has found that one in five of the nation’s office workers are unable to take a break due to this, as their requests are often denied.

According to the Annual Leave Allowances survey of 200 UK employees by Just Eat for Business, staff shortages (21%) were named as the biggest disrupter to annual leave requests.

This was followed by excessive workloads (16%), the request being too short notice (seven percent), a compulsory meeting/event (six percent) or delayed authorisation (three percent).

26% of respondents shared that office workers can’t enjoy time off once they are granted it too, as they are often contacted by their employer to help cover unplanned staff absences and excessive workloads.

One in 10 added that they have to remind their manager to review their annual leave request, suggesting it isn’t top of managers’ minds, while an additional one in 10 claimed that their employer responds to their requests too late.

The majority of employees (60%) agreed that their organisation explicitly discourages them from taking time off work, while one in 10 added that they don’t feel able to ask for mental health leave.

This lack of time off is worrying, particularly as 44% of workers shared they feel burnt out at work and a third admitted trying to maintain a healthy work/life balance is the most stressful aspect of work.

Rosie Hyam, people partner at Just Eat, shared her thoughts on the results: “Given the emphasis on employee wellbeing and work/life balance over the last few years, it’s essential that employers are receptive to flexible working arrangements, and that they allow employees to take time away from work when needed.

“And it doesn’t have to be a big break – organisations may want to carve out some time to ensure that employees can take a break and socialise with colleagues during the working week. This can be done through in-office lunches, socials or team bonding activities.”

Will Foster, professor of leadership at Keele University, added that it isn’t acceptable for staff to lose out on taking a break from work.

“It’s essential that if the ‘espoused’ values of the organisation include employee wellbeing and restorative breaks, then leaders need to allow that to happen and do more than pay lip service,” he said.

“Management must do the hard work of ensuring the structures, roles, responsibilities and staffing levels align so employees can take a ‘true rest’ when needed.”

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