Sustainable pace

Working sustainably allows us to keep delivering good work without burning out the people who are doing it.

• We know that we can’t and shouldn’t plan for every eventuality but estimate and schedule work as realistically as you can from the outset. We should be honest with clients and team members about what’s achievable, even if it isn’t what they want to hear.
• Sometimes, an important deadline or a genuine emergency might mean working more hours than usual. These situations should be rare and can usually be claimed back either more informally or through using TOIL.
• A client or colleague wanting something different, faster or sooner isn’t, on its own, enough reason to work at an unsustainable pace, especially over a long period. 
• If you notice yourself consistently working longer hours, feeling constantly behind, or struggling to switch off, it’s worth talking through with someone earlier rather than trying to push through. It’s easier for someone to help before it becomes a bigger problem. A different perspective can often be helpful when you are feeling this way. We should also be aware of colleagues demonstrating these behaviours and offer support where possible. Our supporting wellbeing section contains information on where you can find help.

Last updated: 5 November 2026