Discussion Point: Augmenting UK's Public Holidays: Pros and Cons Considered
Britons could potentially benefit from more time off work, as arguably, the current work culture in the UK proves to be less productive and less conducive to wellbeing despite long working hours.
In support of this claim, Simon Alexander Ong, an executive coach and author, suggests that more bank holidays might strengthen the economy rather than harm it. He asserts that taking time away from work affords individuals the opportunity to reconnect not only with their families but also with themselves and their sense of purpose. This, in turn, promotes creativity, engagement, and resilience—qualities beneficial for businesses. Furthermore, more rest allows individuals to support local tourism, hospitality, and small businesses, sector essential for growth.
Ong contends that productivity stems from energy, which is renewed when individuals feel valued, trusted, and given the chance to step back without guilt. Nevertheless, he admits that more bank holidays are not the solution to every problem but represent a powerful symbol of cultural priorities, if the nation is to adopt a healthier, more human approach to work, beginning with creating space for people to reset and recharge.
Conversely, Alan Price, CEO at Bright HR, argues that cramming four days of work into five isn't beneficial for employees. He points out that while additional bank holidays may initially seem advantageous, the reality could be quite different, as the 'bounce back' from a bank holiday can contribute significantly to feelings of stress.
Price draws attention to the fact that albeit fewer in number compared to many other countries, the UK offers a generous amount of paid time off to employees. Moreover, many businesses also provide additional 'wellbeing days', allowing employees to determine when to take their time off. This approach, arguably, provides more autonomy and benefits all involved.
Ultimately, more bank holidays may not be the panacea for improving overall wellbeing and productivity. The UK could already be making progress by adopting a more flexible approach to annual leave and offering wellbeing days, allowing employees a degree of autonomy in determining their own time off.
Research indicates that while short-term productivity may decrease due to bank holidays, rest is essential for maintaining or boosting long-term productivity. Sectors such as retail, hospitality, and tourism might profit from additional bank holidays, boosting parts of the UK economy. Balancing these benefits, however, are the potential challenges in terms of productivity losses and stress levels across other sectors like manufacturing and construction. Overall, the impact depends on how bank holidays are managed and integrated into work schedules.
Simon Alexander Ong reasons that increased bank holidays could positively affect the economy, as they provide individuals with opportunities for self-reconnection, fostering creativity, engagement, and resilience beneficial for businesses and local sectors like tourism and hospitality.
On the other hand, Alan Price opposes the idea, stating that while less frequent bank holidays may seem advantageous, they could unintentionally contribute to employee stress in the long run, and businesses may offer wellbeing days as an alternative for more autonomy in determining time off.
