Home distractions “harming remote workers’ wellbeing and productivity”

Home distractions are affecting the wellbeing, productivity and work-life balance of remote workers, according to new research from Durham University Business School. The study, published on 1 May 2026, found that interruptions from domestic life can reduce focus, disrupt task completion and increase stress levels, highlighting a growing workplace health challenge as remote and hybrid working continue across the UK. 

Researchers, including Professor Jakob Stollberger from the Department of Management and Marketing, analysed daily diary entries from 87 remote workers across sectors such as teaching, finance, IT and public administration. Participants recorded their workload and wellbeing four times a day over a 10-day period. 

The findings show that working from home increases “cross-domain interruptions”, where domestic responsibilities interrupt work tasks. Even brief disruptions were found to make it harder for employees to regain focus and maintain performance. 

The study identified a clear link between these interruptions and reduced wellbeing. Workers reported higher stress levels and a greater need for recovery on days when their work was disrupted by home life. Many also struggled to switch off at the end of the working day, undermining work-life balance. 

This reflects a wider issue for UK employers, as remote working continues to reshape workplace health and wellbeing. While flexibility remains a key benefit, the research suggests it can introduce new risks if not properly managed. 

The role of focus was highlighted as a key factor. Researchers found that experiencing “flow” – a state of deep concentration – helped reduce the negative impact of interruptions. On days when workers reached this state, they reported better wellbeing and overall functioning. 

However, as flow is not always consistent, the study explored practical alternatives. Mindfulness, particularly when practised at the start of the day, was found to improve focus and help workers manage interruptions more effectively. 

The findings point to practical steps for both employees and employers to support wellbeing in remote environments. Workers can reduce disruption by setting clear boundaries, creating a dedicated workspace and scheduling focused periods of work. Avoiding household tasks during breaks was also identified as important for proper recovery. 

Employers also play a key role in supporting remote worker wellbeing. The research highlights the importance of setting clear expectations, maintaining connection with teams and ensuring work remains engaging and meaningful. Providing mindfulness training was identified as a practical intervention to help employees manage distractions and maintain focus. 

The study suggests that hybrid working may offer a more balanced approach, combining the flexibility of remote work with the structure of the office. For employers, the findings reinforce the need to design working models that actively support mental wellbeing and sustainable productivity. 

As remote work becomes a long-term feature of employment, the research underlines the importance of proactive workplace wellbeing strategies that address not just where people work, but how they work.