Boomers take twice as much sick leave as Millennials- here’s why

As Britain grapples with rising living costs and the growing strain on workers’ health, a revealing trend is emerging in how different generations manage illness at work.

According to new data from staff leave software Timetastic, in 2024, Baby Boomers took an average of 4 sick days, significantly more than their younger counterparts. Gen X averaged 2.6 days, Millennials 2.5, and Gen Z 2.7 days, figures that are strikingly low given the ongoing mental and physical health challenges reported by younger workers.

This data raises a crucial question: Are Boomers the only generation who can afford to be sick?

Despite the UK government’s modest increase to Statutory Sick Pay (SSP), now £118.75 per week as of April 6, 2025 (up from £116.75 in 2024), the current system offers little comfort to those without savings, job security, or employer-provided benefits.

A sick leave gap rooted in financial inequality

At first glance, one might attribute Boomers’ higher sick leave to age-related health issues. But experts say the difference is more economic than biological.

Oliver Higenbottam, Managing Director of staff leave software Timetastic said:

“What we’re seeing is a sick leave gap that’s rooted in financial inequality, not just age or health. Baby Boomers may be taking more time off, but the real story is that younger generations feel they can’t afford to.

“The fact that Gen Z and Millennials are averaging less than three sick days a year in a time of rising stress, burnout, and cost-of-living pressures could set alarm bells ringing. This isn’t necessarily a sign of good health; it’s a sign of fear and financial insecurity.

“Younger workers are caught in a trap. With low statutory sick pay and precarious job conditions, they’re forced to choose between their health and their income.

“We need to stop treating sick leave like a privilege. It’s a basic workplace right, and our data shows that right now, many people simply can’t access it.”

The result, a phenomenon known as “presenteeism” where employees show up to work while ill, can reduce productivity and worsen health outcomes over time. It also increases the risk of spreading illness, especially in customer-facing or care roles.

The high cost of low sick pay

Even with the SSP rise to £118.75 per week, that works out to about £17 per day, not nearly enough to cover basic living expenses in most parts of the UK.

For comparison, an average UK rent alone is over £900 per month, not including food, transport, or bills. For many young workers in insecure or gig roles, the risk of losing income is enough to keep them working through illness.

Generational Breakdown: Sick Days Taken in 2024

What the numbers don’t show

While Boomers may be taking more time off, it’s not necessarily a sign of poorer health but perhaps greater financial stability, better employer protections, and longer tenure in roles that allow flexibility and trust.

For Gen Z and Millennials, the decision to push through illness often stems from fear of job loss, lack of paid leave, or simply being unable to make ends meet.

As the UK confronts ongoing workforce health challenges, the sick leave gap is becoming not just a generational issue but a socioeconomic one. Because when only some can afford to rest, everyone risks being left unwell.

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