OVER A THIRD OF BRITS ADMIT RARELY LEAVE THE OFFICE DURING THE WORKING DAY
Posted on 25th January 2026
New research from Three UK reveals that over a third (35%) of British workers rarely leave the office during a working day, as half (49%) say the only thing that pulls them away from their desk is a loo break.
To tackle this, and support Brew Monday (19 January), Three is encouraging UK employers to implement a ‘Tea Leave’ initiative. Brew Monday is an annual campaign from Three’s charity partner, Samaritans, which aims to flip the idea of ‘Blue Monday’ on its head in a bid to encourage Brits to break open the biscuits – and taboos – by having a catch up over a cuppa. As an extra incentive, the mobile network’s Three+ rewards app is offering customers two hot drinks for just £1 at cafés and coffee shops across the UK, to enjoy a cuppa and a chat.
The ‘Tea Leave’ initiative was created after new research found that most British office workers (70%) claimed that stepping outside for a simple tea or coffee break may seem small, but is in fact the catalyst for some of the most meaningful conversations they have with their colleagues.
Moreover, almost three quarters (73%) agree these moments of connection play a crucial role in supporting their mental wellbeing at work, more so than dedicated wellbeing spaces (61%) and team building days (55%).
The need for greater workplace connection has never been more important, as a quarter (25%) of British workers claim they don’t feel confident discussing their mental health with colleagues. To help tackle this, Three is encouraging its employees to take a no-questions-asked 30-minute ‘Tea Leave’ break to get fresh air, enjoy a cuppa and connect with others – whether over the phone or in person.
With a fresh year ahead, wellbeing is firmly on the workplace agenda, as over three quarters say that they want to make more of their breaks (77%) and believe it would have a positive impact on their wellbeing at work (76%). The research also found that British workers actively plan to use their breaks in 2026 to get outside more (44%), respond to texts from friends and family (20%), and video call loved ones more often (18%).
Dr Alex George said: “I know first-hand how easy it is to let the day slip away from you when you’re at work, but making time away from your desk can play a huge role in supporting our mental health. This Brew Monday, I’m teaming up with Three and Samaritans to launch their ‘Tea Leave’ campaign – a 30-minute wellbeing break to reconnect with others.
“It’s a brilliant reminder that something as simple as a meaningful chat over a cuppa – whether by phone or face to face – and some fresh air can help us feel more connected and less alone.”
Nicki Lyons, Chief Corporate Affairs and Sustainability Officer, VodafoneThree, said: “Today, we are launching our ‘Tea Leave’ initiative, in support of Samaritans and ‘Brew’ Monday, to help champion more positive wellbeing in the workplace.
“Alongside this, I am pleased to announce that Three has reached its fundraising milestone of £1million to support the incredible work of the charity, Samaritans, renowned for its commitment to emotional support.”
Julie Bentley, CEO, Samaritans, said: “Samaritans created Brew Monday because we know there’s no such thing as ‘Blue Monday’, and that feeling low isn’t the norm just because it’s January. It’s important we bust this myth and remind people to reach out for support and open up if they are finding things tough, no matter what time of year it is.
“Three’s ‘Tea Leave’ initiative is a great way to make sure we’re all building in time to check in with each other and have a real conversation. Moments of human connection can be life-changing to someone who might be struggling, so we hope everyone takes their ‘Tea Leave’ on Brew Monday and beyond.”
Whether at work or at home, Three customers can benefit from an extra perk this week (19 – 25 January), to connect over a cuppa with a colleague, friend or loved one. Three+ members can enjoy two hot drinks for just £1 across the brand’s £1 Coffee Network – barista-made drinks at coffee shops across hundreds of locations, any size and any milk. From coffees and teas to hot chocolate and iced drinks, there’s never been a better excuse for a ‘Tea Leave’ break, thanks to Three.
For more information visit threemediacentre.co.uk
