Nearly two-thirds (63%) of UK workers are calling out for a pay rise, according to a new survey*. The call for better pay in the face of the cost-of-living crisis comes with nearly a third of workers reporting burnout (30%) and a fifth (20%) saying they are miserable at work.

The poll, which aimed to take the temperature on how British workers are coping in the current economy, paints a bleak picture: over a third (36%) cited they are stressed, a fifth (19%) described themselves as lonely when at work, and over a quarter (27%) said they are anxious, signalling more support is needed from employers to address employee mental health issues.

The main reason for burnout is excessive workload (49%).  And with the extra work, there is little recognition: well over half (59%) do not frequently feel appreciated or recognised by bosses.

The research also found that nearly half (49%) of employees don’t frequently feel a sense of belonging at work. Those that reported a lack of belonging explained why:

• Over a quarter (28%) reported that they had nothing in common with their colleagues.
• Incredibly, 10% said they are getting bullied at work.

In the face of such low morale, three-fifths (60%) are calling on their employers to prioritise financial wellbeing. In fact, two-fifths (43%) want more rewards and recognition from bosses, and over half (55%) believe their financial wellbeing is not supported well by bosses.

And employees are not afraid to vote with their feet: in the last six months, over half (57%) have considered ditching their employers for new job opportunities.

Nebel Crowhurst, Chief People Officer at Reward Gateway, said:  “British workers are struggling. They are struggling mentally, with their workloads and are reporting burnout. Add to this the fact that they don’t feel sufficiently supported in the face of the cost-of-living crisis, and it paints a miserable picture for British workers.

“UK workers clearly need help. Pay is one solution but needs to be part of a holistic support package – rewards, subsidies, benefits, and appreciation, all go towards helping employees in time of crisis.”

*Survey by Reward Gateway