Workplace drinking cultures are causing increased absences, particularly affecting Gen Z employees, according to a recent report.
The Institute for Public Policy Research (IPPR) revealed that 31% of workers took sick days in the past year due to work-related drinking. Their survey of 2,000 adults showed that 24% felt pressured to drink when they didn’t want to, with this number rising to 38% for those aged 18 to 24.
The study found that heavy drinkers were three times more likely to engage in presenteeism, where they spend more time at work than necessary, compared to moderate drinkers.
Dr. Jamie O’Halloran, a senior research fellow at IPPR, emphasized that alcohol-related issues are not just public health concerns but also impact the national economy. He highlighted the need for governmental attention to address alcohol-related productivity crises.
The IPPR paper titled ‘Taking stock: counting the economic costs of alcohol harm’ indicated that 22% of Britons admitted to working while hungover, and 29% observed their colleagues being lethargic after drinking, with young workers and senior executives being disproportionately affected.
While Generation Z individuals are generally consuming less alcohol, the report found that they are significantly impacted by alcohol-related problems in the workplace. A substantial 43% of 18 to 24-year-olds reported calling in sick after work-related drinking events, and over a third felt pressured to drink for social acceptance or career advancement.
Sebastian Rees, the head of health at IPPR, highlighted the opportunity for employers to promote wellbeing and performance by moving away from alcohol-centric environments and providing genuine support to employees. He emphasized the importance of creating inclusive workplaces that empower individuals to thrive without feeling pressured to drink.
In related news, a report from the Community Alcohol Partnerships (CAP) warned against introducing alcohol to children at home, as it could lead to increased risks of binge-drinking, alcoholism, and detrimental effects on teenage brain development. The report, led by Dr. Anna Sallis, was presented to MPs at a parliamentary event.
Kate Winstanley, director of CAP, stressed that the misconception that offering alcohol to children at home promotes responsible drinking is harmful. The report revealed that introducing alcohol at an early age raises the likelihood of alcohol-related harm in the future and increases the chances of children seeking alcohol elsewhere if allowed to drink at home.