Techtimeout Tuesday urges UK workplaces to take hourly screen break
Organisations representing more than two million people across the UK have signed up for Techtimeout Tuesday, the annual workplace initiative highlighting the impact of digital overload on wellbeing, productivity and focus.
Raising awareness
Established in 2020 by Steph Henson, Techtimeout Tuesday encourages employers and individuals to take a break from screens and technology for at least one hour. The day takes place in early December, coinciding with a period of heightened internet use following Black Friday and Cyber Monday.
The 2024 campaign involved participation from over 2.58 million people, including employees from major UK companies. Last year, Cadbury encouraged staff to store phones in 'sleeping bags' during lunch breaks, while Paddle UK organised a 'Cake and Connect' hour. Rolls-Royce distributed 'Time Out' chocolate bars to staff, and Menzies implemented a firm-wide screen break. Cardiff FC's academy introduced education sessions and pledge boards.
Growing participation
More than 500 organisations have already committed to the 2025 campaign. These include large employers such as BAE Systems, PwC, Mastercard, CBRE, and Capita. Public sector bodies, including the NHS, Environment Agency, RAF, and University College London, have also signed up, as have a range of schools, charities, councils, and SMEs.
Partners, including Mental Health First Aid England, youth charity Positive Social, and Fluid Focus, a digital wellbeing app, support Techtimeout Tuesday. The initiative delivers awareness campaigns, promotes a digital wellbeing charter in the workplace, and offers training for digital wellbeing champions.
Industry context
Recent research by Ofcom highlights the growing significance of digital wellbeing. The organisation's latest 'Online Nation Report' found the average UK adult spends four hours and 20 minutes online daily, with usage rising to over six hours in the 18-24 age group. Techtimeout Tuesday aims to encourage organisations to reflect on screen usage and foster healthier habits in workplaces.
Founder's perspective
Steph Henson launched the movement after experiencing physical and emotional burnout from excessive screen time. She has since founded The Digital Wellbeing Company, which works with employers to develop healthier digital practices among staff.
"Our goal has never been to be anti-tech. Technology is essential, but the way we use it must be more intentional. Regular breaks from screens allow people to reset, reduce stress, and ultimately get more from their time on-screen," said Steph Henson, Founder, Techtimeout
This year's campaign theme is 'Connected Not Consumed: The Power of an Hour', to encourage participants to take a full hour away from screens.
"You give your devices seven hours a day - this Techtimeout Tuesday, give yourself just one. I want businesses and individuals to fully embrace the campaign by taking a full hour off screens to collectively feel the positive effect. Together, we can change how the UK works with technology, one Techtimeout at a time," said Henson.
