The lines between work and personal life have never been so blurred. You log off for the day, but your phone pings—another work email. Sound familiar? Across Europe, countries are taking action with the Right to Disconnect. With conversations gaining momentum, is it time for the UK to follow suit?

What Is the Right to Disconnect?

The Right to Disconnect gives employees the freedom to ignore work-related messages—emails, calls, or instant chats—outside of working hours, without repercussions. It sets a clear boundary between work and personal time, ensuring people can truly switch off and recharge.

Several European countries have already embraced this concept. France introduced the law in 2017, giving workers the right to ignore after-hours emails (The Guardian). Spain and Portugal followed suit, reinforcing employees’ rights to uninterrupted personal time. So why is the UK still lagging behind?

The Benefits of Disconnecting

Giving employees the Right to Disconnect has clear benefits:

  • Reduced stress & burnout – Always being “on” leads to exhaustion. Studies show workers with clear boundaries experience lower anxiety and higher well-being.
  • Better productivity – Rested employees perform better. Disconnecting allows for better focus and creativity.
  • Stronger work-life balance – Remote work has blurred boundaries, but a Right to Disconnect helps restore them.

A Telus Mental Health Index survey found that 44% of UK workers feel mentally and physically exhausted by the end of their workday (People Management). Clearly, something needs to change.

Where Does the UK Stand?

Despite mounting evidence, the UK has yet to introduce legal protections for employees facing after-hours work demands. Some companies have stepped up, but policies vary widely.

A People Management report found that 50% of UK workers support a Right to Disconnect law. Meanwhile, The Guardian reports increasing parliamentary support for restrictions on out-of-hours contact. The Labour Party has hinted at workplace reforms, including potential laws on disconnecting from work after hours.

Employer Concerns: A Real Barrier?

Not everyone is on board. Employers in flexible industries or global businesses worry about defining “after hours” across different time zones. However, studies suggest that setting boundaries increases productivity, reduces turnover, and improves job satisfaction.

With burnout costing UK businesses £51 billion annually (Deloitte), introducing these policies could be a game-changer.

What’s Next for the UK?

With hybrid work here to stay, the UK must decide: should we follow Europe’s lead? Work-life balance isn’t just about personal well-being – it impacts productivity, retention, and overall job satisfaction.

Until formal legislation arrives, businesses must lead the way. Employers who prioritise work-life balance will attract and retain top talent. The Right to Disconnect isn’t just about switching off emails – it’s about switching on to a healthier, more sustainable way of working.

But the real question remains: will the UK be brave enough to follow their lead and give workers the breathing room they deserve?

 

This blogpost was written by Nina Szewczak one of our CIPD tutors here at Oxford College of Management. If you’re interested in taking your HR or People Management career to the next level, take a look at our wide range of CIPD qualifications.