New research from Pure Resourcing Solutions, independent accountancy and executive recruitment specialists, shows that when it comes to holidays, many employees are not making the most of their time off.

New research from Pure Resourcing Solutions, independent accountancy and executive recruitment specialists, shows that when it comes to holidays, many employees are not making the most of their time off.

Approximately a quarter of those surveyed said they do not use their full annual holiday entitlement with the average number of days not taken being five out of a 25 day holiday entitlement.

The company surveyed over 165 accountancy and financial services professionals from the Cambridge, Norwich and Ipswich areas to establish attitudes towards working life.

Many employees are also failing to disengage from work when they are away with 23pc worrying about work when they are on holiday.

A further 9pc check their work email while they are away, 8pc admit to calling the office and 3pc say they actually take work with them to do on holiday.

And its not just the employees that have trouble leaving work behind - sometimes it follows them - 9pc say that they have received calls from the office while on holiday.

Lynn Walters, director of Pure Resourcing Solutions, in Norwich, said of the results: "New technology has made the world smaller and it very easy to keep in touch and work remotely.

“While this is advantageous in many respects as it gives added flexibility to how people work, the downside is that there is a temptation on both sides to stay in contact when they are on holiday.

“Holiday time is essential for increased productivity, motivation and general wellbeing. It's not just about the number of days people take but the quality of the time spent way from work that is important.

“If you are constantly worrying about work problems or being pestered by work related calls you won't get the full benefit that a holiday is supposed to provide."

TOP TIPS FOR MAKING THE MOST OF YOUR HOLIDAY

t Think about how you are going to spend your holiday time at the start of the year

t Don't leave a large chunk of your holiday allowance unused so you have to try and squeeze them all in at the end of the year (when you may not be able to take them)

t Even if you don't plan to go away, time away from the office is still important, so spending your holiday painting the house or working in the garden is just as good for you

t Before you go away make sure everything is up to date at work and you have prepared thorough handover notes for your colleagues so you can relax while you are away knowing that everything is being taken care of

t Ask your colleagues not to call you while you are away

t Resist the urge to check your work email or call the office

t Take time to disengage on the first day of your holiday. Do some breathing exercises and try meditation to relax you and clear your mind of work issues

t If you start worrying about work while you are away, write down all your concerns in a notebook to deal with on your return. Very often there is nothing you can do immediately anyway so you may as well put your worries to one side and concentrate on enjoying your holiday

t Switch off your mobile and only check for messages once a day