Research¹ has highlighted a growing shift in UK work-life priorities, with Gen X (those born between 1965 and 1980) driving the change. Twice as many UK workers want to take sabbaticals than have actually taken one, underlining a clear gap between aspiration and reality.

Health and wellbeing are the top motivators for taking some time out, to recharge and reflect. However, affordability (45%) and other barriers, such as lack of employer support (22%), are holding people back.

Four times as many Gen Xers would like to take time out through a sabbatical than have put it into practice, despite being the least likely generation to say they enjoy their job.

Property wealth accounts for a significant share of IHT-paying estates, particularly in London, where it represents 47% of total estate value, according to a new report². Comparable figures stand at 42% in the South East and East of England, 36% South West and 33% East Midlands, with most regions reporting property making up around a third or more of taxable estates. In the 2022/23 financial year (the most recent data available), the average property value within London estates exceeded £862,000, contributing to an overall average estate value of more than £1.6m.

¹Aegon 2025, ²FOI 2026         

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