The Exeter has released new research highlighting the effect of extended illness on UK workers’ productivity and financial security. The findings reveal widespread disruption to work, personal plans and mental health, with younger adults, men and those working for large- or medium-sized companies the most affected.
Absences higher amongst male workers
The Exeter’s survey of 2,000 UK adults found that almost half (44%) have taken at least four weeks off work during their careers due to illness, injury or mental health challenges. Recent absences are highest among men, with 49% stating they have taken an extended period off work, and 18% of those doing so within the past year. In comparison, 39% of female workers have taken an extended period off work, 9% of these absences occurring in the last year.
The issue is particularly notable among adults aged 25-34, where 62% report having taken extended leave at some point in their lives.
Employees at larger firms more likely to take extended absence
Extended absences are least common among small business owners (21%), compared to 53% of employees employed by a medium sized company (50-249 employees) and 51% of employees at larger firms of over 250+ employees, where 22% have taken an extended period off work in the last year.
Where someone lives also seems to influence how likely they are to take extended time off work. Half of respondents in Greater London (50%) reported taking an extended period off work – the highest of any region. This compares with just 36% in the West Midlands and 39% in Wales, compared to the national average of 44%, highlighting that reported experiences vary noticeably across the country.
Dawn Prescott, Head of Healthcare Proposition at The Exeter, commented:
“Extended absences and cancelled plans show how ill health affects not just financial security, but people’s mental wellbeing too. These results highlight the growing challenge of meeting public expectations around timely healthcare access, particularly among younger adults who are increasingly impacted by disruptions to work and daily life. We recognise the healthcare pressures facing UK workers and believe we have a role to play in supporting recovery, and in offering protection and healthcare solutions that help individuals manage both financial and emotional pressures when ill health strikes.”
ENDS
Notes to Editors
Methodology
This research was conducted among 2,000 nationally representative UK consumers between 6–8th August 2025.
PR Contact
Tom Stewart-Walvin, Rostrum
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E: theexeter@rostrum.agency
About The Exeter
The Exeter is a leading protection and healthcare insurer who have been supporting UK families in the event of ill health or injury since 1888.
Formerly known as the Exeter Friendly Society and Pioneer Friendly Society, The Exeter is a mutual friendly society. This means it’s owned by members and run for their benefit, rather than shareholders.
The Exeter is a trading name of Exeter Friendly Society Limited, which is authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and the Prudential Regulation Authority (Register number 205309) and is incorporated under the Friendly Societies Act 1992 Register No. 91F with its registered office at Lakeside House, Emperor Way, Exeter, England EX1 3FD.