How is the cost of living affecting us, now that we are several years into it? Are we under pressure to increase productivity, adopt more working hours and take on more challenging shift patterns to make ends meet? What are businesses doing about the mental health effects of this change?
We sat down with Sarah Parry, Managing Director of Residential Energy Services (RES), to discuss the pressing issue of workplace isolation and loneliness in the UK and its connection to the current cost of living crisis.
The Problem of Isolation and Loneliness in the UK
In 2023, a survey conducted by Nextdoor in partnership with the Marmalade Trust showed that 85% of UK adults had experienced loneliness within the past 12 months, while almost half (44%) reported feeling chronically lonely. Could these feelings of isolation be amplified by the cost of living crisis, particularly the rising cost of energy?
We asked Sarah, what is the state of loneliness and isolation in the UK, and how is it connected to the cost of living crisis?
“Loneliness and isolation have become significant concerns in the UK, exacerbated by the ongoing cost of living crisis. People are finding it increasingly difficult to maintain social interactions and connections due to financial strains. The increase in living costs means individuals are working longer hours or multiple jobs to make ends meet, leaving less time for socialising. This financial pressure not only impacts physical health but also contributes to mental health struggles, increasing feelings of loneliness and isolation.”
The Cost of Isolation and Loneliness At Work
The cost of loneliness to UK employers has been estimated at a staggering £2.5 billion annually. This substantial figure is driven by increased staff turnover (64%, £1.62 billion), lower wellbeing and productivity (26%, £665 million), the impact of caring responsibilities (9%, £220 million), and sickness absence due to ill health (1%, £20 million). On an individual level, severe loneliness has a financial impact of £9,900 per person per year, affecting wellbeing, health, and productivity.
Could these economic consequences be linked to rising energy costs, placing additional strain on employees, leading to heightened feelings of isolation and stress?
“Workplace isolation is indeed a serious issue. A significant number of employees report feeling disconnected from their colleagues, especially in environments where remote or flexible working patterns are now more prevalent. This lack of interaction can lead to decreased job satisfaction, lower productivity, and increased mental health issues. Employers must recognise the importance of managing a supportive and connected workplace environment to help fight these feelings of isolation.”
The Impact of Shift Work on Isolation and Loneliness
A study of over 175,000 workers examined the relationship between shift work and mental health, finding a significant association with increased risks of depression and anxiety. Lifestyle choices were found to be a factor, explaining 31.3% of the link between shift work and depression and 21.2% of the link between shift work and anxiety.
Could the connection between shift work and mental health issues be further intensified by the cost of living crisis?
“Shift workers are particularly vulnerable to loneliness and isolation. Their irregular working hours and the need to sleep during conventional social times mean they miss opportunities for interaction with family, friends and their community. Additionally, shift workers often miss out on workplace activities and events that could help build team camaraderie. This can lead to a sense of exclusion and heightened feelings of loneliness.”
These results suggest that promoting healthier lifestyles could improve the mental health of shift workers. The RES Employee Energy Advice Program can help combat social loneliness and isolation in the workplace, particularly among shift workers:
“Our Employee Energy Advice Program offers a unique approach to address these issues. The workshops not only focus on improving energy efficiency but also serve as team-building activities that bring people together. By engaging employees in these sessions, we help create a sense of community and shared purpose. Shift workers can particularly benefit as we offer flexible workshop schedules to accommodate their hours, ensuring they too can participate and feel included.
By reducing household bills and improving overall wellbeing, we help employees feel less isolated and more connected to their community.”
Through our workshops, we aim to empower employees and employers to tackle loneliness and isolation together, creating a more resilient and engaged workforce.
Combining energy efficiency initiatives with wellbeing support offers a dual benefit, helping to combat workplace isolation and loneliness while also addressing the cost of living crisis. We encourage businesses to reach out and learn more about how our Workplace Energy Advice Program can make a positive impact on employees and your overall sustainability goals.
Why Does an Energy Efficient Home Matter for Employees
The quality of employees home’s, including temperature, air quality and energy efficiency can have a huge impact on mental health and productivity, both in and out of work.
So, how can energy efficiency improve mental well being?
Comfort & Temperature Regulation
A well insulated, energy efficient home maintains a consistent temperature, preventing discomfort from cold or draughty conditions. The Institute of Health Equity states that cold homes can increase stress and contribute to mental health issues.
Lower Financial Stress
High energy bills can be a major source of anxiety. Improving home energy efficiency can reduce energy bills by up to £550 per year, helping to ease financial pressure.
Improve Air Quality & Health
Energy efficient homes require proper ventilation, allowing air to move in and out of the house in a controlled manor, which does not include draughts. Improving controlled ventilation reduces dampness and mould, both of which have been linked to respiratory and mental health issues.
Improved Sleep & Focus
Research from the UK Green Building Council tells us that better indoor air quality and heating comfort lead to improved sleep, reduced stress and better productivity. This is key for workers facing workplace isolation.
Get in touch with our team about Workplace Energy Advice
