Why work when you can snuggle?

The winter blues are said to be the main factor behind today’s ‘national sickie day,’ during which employees opt to remain at home under their duvets rather than venturing into work.

The financial hangover from the festive season, coupled with the short days and cold weather have all led to staff staying off work, a trend which could cost firms as much as £34 million.

Professor of organisational psychology and health at Lancaster University, Cary Cooper, told Metro: “The ‘National Sickie Day’ may seem like a bit of a joke with some of these wild excuses, but there are some serious underlying reasons hiding beneath the surface.

“This time of year is tough, especially for those struggling to meet financial commitments or just fed-up after the holiday season. So it’s no great surprise that it’s the peak point for absences. Smart bosses know when to show a little understanding – when to say, ‘ok, take a day off, just don’t abuse my trust.’”

Peter Mooney from Employment Law Advisory Services, said that staff decisions to take a duvet day can seriously impact businesses by “zapping workplace energy and productivity levels.”