The majority of ill employees are still going to work due to financial stress, according to research from Nationwide Building Society.

A poll of over 2000 people found 59% had gone to work when ill or injured.

Financial concerns were the overriding reason for employees working regardless of their health.

Two thirds (64%) revealed they worried if they would cope financially if they had to take four or more weeks off work due to poor health.

These concerns are even frustrating healthcare and how it is received.

One in three (32%) admitted they had not followed their doctor’s advice because they couldn’t afford to take time off.

Meanwhile, 43% said they would put off going to the doctors due to financial concerns, even if they were concerned they potentially had a serious illness.

These respondents’ financial concerns reflects a widespread state of vulnerability with many not having income protection or critical illness cover in place.

Three in 10 (30%) admitted they had nothing in place to support them financially if they could not work.

Others pointed to savings, reduced payments and borrowing from friends and family as their financial fallback plan.

However, 55% said they would still struggle to survive longer than three months.

Over a quarter (27%) said they would be in a worse position and could only be comfortable for one month.

“Many are finding themselves in the very difficult position of having to put the need to earn money over their health by continuing to go to work, even when advised not to by a doctor,” says Nationwide director of protection, investments and insurance Jason Hurwood.

“Very few opt for income protection insurance, particularly the self-employed and those who get little or no sick pay from their employers, because of concerns about the cost or even just a lack of awareness that it exists.”