Ever noticed fewer people at work on a Monday morning? You’re not imagining it. According to the Office for National Statistics and Public Health England, an estimated 3–5% of all workplace absences are alcohol-related. That’s the equivalent of up to 17 million working days lost annually in the UK alone.
And it’s not just about calling in sick. A recent 2023 YouGov survey revealed that over one in three employees admitted going to work with a hangover in the past month, with 23% admitting their drinking made them less productive – doing the bare minimum before heading home early.
Why It Matters in the Workplace
Alcohol remains deeply embedded in UK culture and the workplace is no exception. From boozy lunches to post-work drinks, alcohol is often part of team bonding or reward culture. And while many companies have made strides with workplace wellbeing initiatives around stress, burnout, and mental health, very few are addressing alcohol awareness in a meaningful or inclusive way.
Let’s be clear: we’re not talking about those at rock bottom. This is about the “grey area drinkers” those who may appear to be functioning fine, but are drinking more than they’d like, and suffering in silence. They’re not seeking rehab, but they do want change. And they’re often unsupported.
“Alcohol is the only drug we have to justify not taking.”(Jason Vale – Kick the drink easily)
Because it’s legal and socially accepted, drinking is seen as the norm, even a symbol of success or confidence. Choosing not to drink is still, in many circles, seen as ‘boring’ or suspicious. As I said in my TEDx talk, “Sobriety Rocks – Who Knew!” – the drinking culture in the UK isn’t black or white. It’s a spectrum. And many people are stuck in the grey zone, unsure where to turn. I run The Sober Club, a wellbeing community for the sober and sober curious
The Hidden Cost of Drinking
Alcohol remains the most harmful drug overall, when considering the combined impact on individuals, families, the NHS, and the wider economy (as ranked by the UK Independent Scientific Committee on Drugs). And yet, it’s still glamorised.
In a 2024 Drinkaware study:
- 21% of employees said they drank more than they intended because of pressure from colleagues.
- 13% felt pressured into drinking by their line manager or boss.
- Over 60% felt their workplace’s alcohol culture made it harder to cut down or quit.
This kind of environment not only alienates those trying to change their behaviour, it actively discourages them from speaking up or seeking help.
The Rise of the Sober Curious
Thankfully, the tide is turning.
A growing number of professionals, particularly millennials and Gen Z are embracing a “sober curious” lifestyle. Alcohol-free beers, botanical spirits, and zero-alcohol wines have seen a surge in popularity. It’s no longer taboo to order a non-alcoholic drink at a business event and with artisan brands now competing with the big players, there’s genuine variety on offer.
It’s not about prohibition. It’s about choice. It’s about creating environments where people can cut down or quit without fear of judgment or exclusion.
When someone gives up smoking, we applaud them. When someone stops drinking? Too often, they’re met with suspicion, ridicule, or “sober shaming.”
What Employers Can Do
Alcohol Awareness Week is the perfect opportunity for employers to pause and reflect on their company culture:
- Are team socials inclusive of non-drinkers?
- Is alcohol still the default reward or celebration?
- Do staff feel safe and supported to question their relationship with alcohol?
This isn’t just about duty of care – it’s smart business. Reduced absence, increased productivity, and stronger mental clarity all come with reduced alcohol consumption.
Support for Your Team
If you’re looking to bring this conversation into your workplace, I offer interactive webinars, coaching sessions, and team talks focused on:
- Understanding grey area drinking
- Reducing stigma in the workplace
- Creating inclusive, mindful environments
- Practical strategies for reducing or quitting alcohol
Let’s move beyond outdated ideas and open up the conversation. Sobriety isn’t boring it’s brave, it’s bold, and yes, it rocks.
Get in touch today to book a session for your team this Alcohol Awareness Week and beyond janey @ janeyleegrace.com
Ref: https://www.drinkaware.co.uk/research/drinkaware-monitors/drinkaware-monitor-2024