According to a new national survey, there’s a wave of absenteeism hitting UK workers. Unsurprisingly, this frequently occurs the day after they’ve been forced to speak at work-related events that indulge in alcohol. What all these findings add up to is a surprising number. 32% of employees admitted to calling in sick after consuming alcohol at a work function or with coworkers within the last 12 months. This growing trend is worrying not only for workplace productivity but indicative of a larger problem with alcohol use in workplace settings.
The effect of alcohol on absenteeism is especially acute in younger employees. The poll finds that a shocking 41% of 18-to-24-year-olds have already called in sick due to a hangover. At the same time, 47% of Americans age 25 to 34 have experienced these same difficulties. This may imply a culture of drinking at work events and could be one of the factors leading to decreased productivity among younger generations.
In specific sectors, the statistics are alarming. Within the education sector, 22% of staff confessed to calling in sick after drinking at or following work activities in the past six months. Additionally, 24% of workers in health and social care responded that they experienced the same. Almost one in five employees in these industries admitted to showing up late the morning after an incident like this.
The Institute for Public Policy Research (IPPR) has raised the alarm over a pressing issue. Instead, they say, workplace drinking has devolved into an even larger “productivity crisis”— no longer a strictly personal concern. They would further contend that alcohol harm has evolved into a national economic crisis requiring immediate intervention and action. Widening exclusion at work events Employees can even feel like drinking at work events contributes to exclusion, with 28% feeling it creates clique-like environments that exclude non-drinkers.
Matthew Percival, CBI Director for People and Skills, said “Inclusive workplaces need strong, inclusive policies in place. Clear policies are an essential first step. A increasing number of employers have written policies on alcohol, but this is just the beginning of the fight.
In spite of the positive changes, the professional culture in the UK is still very much rooted in drinking. Social norms usually make it seem like any kind of networking or recognizing work accomplishments can’t happen without an alcoholic drink. Not only does Gen Z drink less than previous generations, but some employers are making strides to eliminate alcohol-centered work functions, as well,” said Sebastian Rees. UK professional culture is still very much entrenched in drinking.
In light of these difficulties, many employers have found it necessary to rethink how to hold a workplace event. An increasing number are passing policies that promote inclusivity and lower the focus on alcohol. This change is reflective of a larger cultural movement, such as a decrease in alcohol use among youth.
The UK government is taking steps to combat the issue with massive public health campaigns. A government spokesperson announced that they are putting prevention at the heart of their new 10-year national health plan. They are desperately trying to allow enough space for people to make healthier choices by creating an NHS fit for the future. We remain dedicated to making this mandatory requirement a reality. This would make sure that all alcoholic beverages have uniform nutritional information as well as health warning messages.
Dr. Richard Piper highlighted concerns regarding the economic implications of alcohol consumption, criticizing “endless alcohol industry overclaim about the economic benefits it delivers.”