Workers 'more stressed' in downturn

Workers are more stressed, putting in longer hours and taking fewer holidays because of the "devastating" impact of the economic downturn, according to a new study.

A survey of 1,500 adults by Nuffield Health showed those in Yorkshire claimed to have the best work-life balance, while almost half of Londoners did not use all their holiday entitlement.

Just over half of those questioned by the healthcare provider said their stress levels had increased in recent years, sometimes even when they weren't at work.

One in eight were not taking all their leave, either because they were too busy, could not afford a break or were worried it might affect their job security, and almost a third were working up to seven hours a week unpaid overtime.

Marcus Powell, of Nuffield Health, said: "This survey provides an interesting insight into people's work and home lives since the beginning of the economic downturn.

"It shows people are feeling more stressed, often by work, and have less time for their loved ones. More worryingly, a quarter of those surveyed said they are using alcohol to cope with work stress."