UK workers look to employers for support during second lockdown

Although many UK workers have said that they feel better prepared for tackling lockdown fatigue this time around, they’re still looking for support from their employers.

Totaljobs research shows that there’s a generally positive approach with regards to ‘Lockdown 2.0’, however, 33% are concerned about feelings of loneliness and isolation with 15% looking for mental health and wellbeing support.

There are also more people choosing to take fewer breaks during working hours during this lockdown, with only 14% planning to take time off for a lunch break or time away from the computer.

Interestingly, 52% of workers think that employers will not offer them additional support, believing staff to be used to lockdown life, despite 64% wanting further help from their employer.

Totaljobs’ CEO, Jon Wilson, commented on the findings, “For many nowadays, the office has been replaced by a kitchen table or a precariously balanced laptop on the sofa – and that will last a little longer for workers who aren’t able to return to their workplaces.

“We’re living in anxious times and our work lives have taken a very different shape from what it was just at the start of the year.”

Wilson added, “It is alarming to see in today’s results that during this second lockdown, workers in the UK are feeling less inclined than before to take breaks away from their computers, enjoy a lunch break or even leave the house. Taking time to move away from your workstation has many proven benefits and can allow workers to carry on with their day refreshed and reinvigorated and keep a physical activity if coupled with a walk outside for example.

“Keeping this routine is also necessary for workers’ wellbeing and mental health. Regrettably, loneliness continues to blight the wellbeing of many workers this year, especially during lockdown conditions.

“As we all work our way through this winter period, employers should continue to take practical steps to maintain the wellness of our teams and ensure that individuals don’t end up isolated or disconnected. WFH may have been something we got accustomed to this year, but isn’t always a fully positive experience for all workers.

“Keep an eye on your team, consider training and workshops on how to deal with anxiety, encourage them to take breaks and speak with each other, and assess if there’s anything you can do as an employer, to improve their physical and mental wellbeing in their working conditions, be it for the remainder of this current lockdown, or longer as the situation develops.”

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