An independent report from Acas, titled How Prevalent is Individual Conflict at Work in Great Britain in 2025?, has found that over two in five working-age adults in Great Britain reported experiencing conflict in the last 12 months. Acas says this is the highest level of individual conflict ever reported in a survey of workers in Great Britain.
In the report, “conflict” is defined as disagreements, disputes or difficult relationships with a:
- work colleague
- manager or supervisor
- direct report
- customer, client or member of the public
- colleague in another organisation.
The most common topic of conflict was capability and performance issues (38%) and more than half of people who reported conflict (57%) experienced stress, anxiety or depression as a result. The research also highlights the annual cost of conflict in Great Britain at £28.5 billion.
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Niall Mackenzie, Chief Executive of Acas said: “It is good to know that many people do seek informal resolution, but there are still too many who take no action in response to conflict, simply waiting for it to 'go away'.”
Experience of conflict was most common among people whose disability had a major impact on their daily life at 68%. Mr Mackenzie, said: “It is concerning to see those with a disability reporting such high levels of conflict and there is a clear call to action for everyone to build more inclusive workplaces.”
The early conciliation period will be extended from the current six weeks to 12 weeks with effect from 1 December 2025, increasing the time available for Acas to help an employer and employee to resolve a dispute before proceeding with an employment tribunal claim.
