A new survey by Purbeck Insurance Services reveals that over three‑quarters (76%) of small and medium‑sized enterprise (SME) decision‑makers either sometimes or always work while on holiday, with only 22% managing to fully disconnect.
Despite the average full‑time UK employee clocking 36.5 hours per week, 57% of SME owners report working more than 40 hours—including evenings and weekends—and 14% admit to working up to 70 hours weekly, intensifying the risk of burnout.
Regional and demographic differences emerge: SMEs in North East England are the most likely to switch off on holiday, with 38% never working while away, whereas a quarter of business owners in Wales and the West Midlands “always” work on holiday. Women are slightly more inclined to keep working on their breaks (79%) compared with men (75%), and younger entrepreneurs lead the pack, with 83% continuing to work on holiday.
Rising operational costs—reported by 85% of SMEs—are a key factor driving extended hours. Many owners secure loans backed by personal guarantees, raising the stakes on their personal assets and increasing the pressure to remain “always on.”
Todd Davison, MD of Purbeck Insurance Services, warns:
“Being your own boss undoubtedly has its rewards, but the ability to truly switch off is essential for long‑term performance and wellbeing. We understand the financial pressures small business owners face, especially the growing reliance on personal guarantees when securing funding.
That’s why it’s so important for SME leaders to take steps to manage these risks. Taking out personal guarantee insurance is a practical and straightforward way to protect personal assets and ease the mental burden. Summer holidays will always be a juggling act for small business owners, but knowing their personal finances are safeguarded can help them relax and recharge more effectively while they’re away.”
