New research reveals that only a third (35%) of UK workers used their entire holiday allowance last year, with nearly one in five (17%) leaving more than five days unused.
This reflects a growing pattern being referred to as ‘holiday hoarding’. For some, this may happen unintentionally, but for others, it’s often due to a sense of pressure to remain ‘always on’ at work.
This reluctance to take holiday could stem from an unhealthy workplace culture that discourages rest.
According to employment experts, using your holiday entitlement is not only a right but also essential for your wellbeing.
Guy Thornton, the Founder of PracticeAptitudeTests.com, said: “In the UK, taking annual leave is a fundamental part of your employment rights.”
“Taking annual leave is essential for both your personal wellbeing and your ability to work well. It can reduce your stress levels, increase your creativity and even have a positive effect on your immune system.
“Employees that are fatigued and held back from the activities they want to do, such as holidays, family time, or simply resting, aren’t likely to perform well. This leads to consistently poorer performance and results than if you had a happy, rested team.
“Alternatively, when the work culture is supportive and employees feel empowered to take time away from work, it leads to a healthier, more positive culture, which benefits everyone.”
What should I do if I’m struggling to take time off work?
Thornton listed some of the most common reasons people don’t take off their annual leave, and what you should do if you’re in this situation:
“Work won’t survive if I’m not there”: This attitude is something that a lot of people believe and it prevents them from taking their annual leave. If you feel this way, consider speaking with your manager and voicing your concerns.
“I am unable to support myself financially if I take time off work”: As an employer, you are legally required to pay your staff for the minimum requirement of paid annual leave.
If your employer isn’t paying you for your entitled leave or if you’re expected to forfeit income to take time off, speak to HR, or if necessary, reach out to ACAS (Advisory, Conciliation and Arbitration Service) for guidance on how to handle the situation.
“My boss consistently rejects my annual leave requests”: While employers do have the right to deny annual leave requests if it conflicts with business needs, they must give you sufficient notice and have a valid business reason for doing so.
If your requests are frequently or unfairly denied, it may be time to formally address this issue. Begin by having a documented conversation with your HR department, noting the dates and reasons for each denial. If this does not help, seek advice from an employment solicitor or contact ACAS for support.
“People will think of me negatively if I take time off”: This fear is common, especially in workplaces where being ‘seen’ to be working, is valued more than productivity.
Don’t be afraid to set an example by prioritising your health and time away, as this could encourage others to do the same.
