A new survey shows that mounting return-to-office mandates are triggering widespread anxiety among employees, especially those who have embraced hybrid work as a key to their wellbeing.
According to research conducted by recruitment firm Hays, 38% of workers say recent headlines about companies tightening in-office attendance policies have negatively impacted their wellbeing. The psychological toll underscores a growing disconnect between corporate demands and evolving workforce expectations.
Hybrid work, once seen as a pandemic-era stopgap, has become a mainstay for millions. In the U.K., more than a quarter of working adults had adopted a hybrid model by early 2025.
Among those splitting time between home and office, 84% said the arrangement positively affects their overall wellbeing — spanning mental, physical, financial, and social health. Women, in particular, reported strong benefits, with 87% citing improved wellbeing compared to 80% of men, according to The Guardian.
Yet the threat of being pulled back into the office full-time is stirring unease, with the top concern being cost. Nearly 60% of respondents pointed to financial worries — especially commuting expenses — as a major deterrent to more frequent office attendance.
The pressure is mounting across sectors, but particularly within finance. HSBC recently warned U.K. bank staff that bonuses could be reduced if office attendance falls below 60%. Barclays, Santander, and hedge fund giant Man Group have all moved to rein in remote work flexibility, sparking criticism among workers.
Generational and gender gaps are also emerging. Younger professionals (aged 20–29) reported higher levels of concern about stricter office policies than their older colleagues. And 42% of women said RTO-related news had damaged their wellbeing, compared to 32% of men.
As employers rethink their workplace strategies, the data reveals that overlooking the wellbeing toll of return-to-office mandates could erode morale, hinder retention, and threaten long-term organizational resilience.
