Growing pressure to return to the office is taking a toll on employee wellbeing across the UK, with younger workers and women particularly affected, according to new research from recruitment firm Hays.
In a nationwide survey of 3,600 employees and employers across public and private sectors, 38% of respondents said recent headlines about stricter office attendance policies have negatively impacted their mental and emotional wellbeing. The findings come amid a broader push by major companies—especially in finance—to tighten return-to-office (RTO) requirements.
Hybrid working, which has become the norm for around 28% of UK adults as of early 2024, remains highly valued. More than four in five hybrid employees (84%) reported a positive impact on their overall wellbeing—including mental, physical, social, and financial aspects—when working part-time from home.
The research also highlighted a gender divide: 87% of women said hybrid work improves their wellbeing, compared to 80% of men. Women also appeared more concerned about RTO developments, with 42% reporting a negative impact from news of stricter mandates, versus 32% of male respondents.
Younger workers are feeling the strain most acutely. Employees aged 20 to 29 were significantly more likely to report adverse effects from the growing pressure to return to the office, compared with those aged 50 and above.
Financial concerns are another key factor. Nearly 60% of workers said the rising cost of commuting would make them less willing to spend more time in the office, highlighting a major obstacle to RTO compliance.
The findings arrive as several high-profile companies ramp up in-office requirements. HSBC recently warned UK retail banking staff that failure to spend at least 60% of their time in the office could result in bonus reductions. Barclays and Santander have similarly raised expectations for office attendance.
In June, hedge fund giant Man Group directed its London-based analysts to return to the office five days a week, following a period of underperformance.
Hannah Pearsall, Head of Wellbeing at Hays, cautioned that firms failing to acknowledge the wellbeing implications of rigid RTO policies could be jeopardizing their long-term success.
“The popularity of hybrid working shows no signs of wavering, and the role it plays in improving wellbeing should not be overlooked,” Pearsall said. “A lack of awareness around the impact of return-to-office mandates—particularly on financial wellbeing—could be catastrophic for the sustained success of their business.”
As companies weigh productivity, morale, and retention, the survey makes clear that flexible work arrangements have become a baseline expectation for many UK employees—and a key factor in maintaining a healthy, motivated workforce.
