According to a recent survey, British workers are doing more unpaid overtime than their counterparts in major European countries. The report reveals that the average UK employee works an extra 40 hours each month without pay, outpacing other European nations such as France (24 hours), Spain (27 hours), and Germany (31 hours).
The study, which surveyed 13,000 workers across the UK, USA, France, Spain, Germany, Italy, and Greece, found that overtime has increased for 37% of employees since the pandemic began. However, these figures are overshadowed by the US, where the typical worker puts in 60 unpaid hours a month – the highest figure globally.
The research was commissioned by Malibu, who partnered with Baroness Karren Brady CBE yesterday to launch the first-ever “Clock Off Fountain”.
Workers finishing their day were offered the opportunity to disconnect from constant emails and instant messages by safely tossing their phone into the fountain from 5:01pm while enjoying a Malibu Pina Colada.
The Apprentice star and business executive commented: “In the UK, we can wear overwork like a badge of honour, but the real power move is knowing when to step away. Clocking off on time isn’t slacking – it’s recharging.”
Karren added: “The best leaders know that life is about more than just the boardroom; it’s about the people and passions that make the hard work worthwhile. This campaign is an important reminder to everyone, including myself, to do just this.”
The research also reported that 34% of employees frequently feel compelled to work beyond their contracted hours. The main reasons for this included excessive workload and looming deadlines, as well as a reluctance to leave tasks incomplete.
With the pressure to put in the extra hours, a staggering 66% have felt obligated to work even while on holiday. Consequently, this could explain why 23% feel that work dominates ‘most’ of their lives, and why 28% only manage to squeeze in time with friends when possible.
One in five of those surveyed say they feel overworked, and sadly, 16% have missed out on significant moments because of putting in extra hours.
Craig van Niekerk, a spokesperson for Malibu, commented: “We understand that work is a meaningful part of life – it provides purpose, structure, and a way to contribute.
“But it’s overwork – not work – that’s wearing us down. In a world that rarely stops, we’re reminding everyone to slow down, prioritise joy, and make time for what truly matters.”
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