Over 2 million people are set to take part in Techtimeout Tuesday this December, as the annual campaign launched by Shropshire's Steph Henson challenges Britain's growing screen addiction.
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A Shropshire tech entrepreneur is behind the UK's largest wellbeing initiative, which is building momentum ahead of its return on 2 December 2025.
Techtimeout Tuesday, launched by Steph Henson from Shropshire in 2020, already has organisations representing over 2 million people signed up, with numbers growing daily.
The campaign encourages workplaces and individuals to step back from screens and rediscover the benefits of balance, focus, and real-world connection. Held annually since 2020, it always falls after Black Friday and Cyber Monday, when screen time typically peaks.
A Growing Problem
The timing is particularly relevant. According to Ofcom's 'Online Nation Report 2024', UK adults now spend an average of 4 hours 20 minutes online every day, rising to over 6 hours for young adults aged 18-24.
"Our goal has never been to be anti-tech. Technology is essential, but the way we use it must be more intentional. Regular breaks from screens allow people to reset, reduce stress, and ultimately get more from their time on-screen."
Steph Henson, Founder of Techtimeout
From Shropshire to National Movement
Henson founded the campaign after experiencing her own digital burnout, facing physical and emotional exhaustion due to excessive screen time. She went on to establish The Digital Wellbeing Company, a UK-based organisation helping businesses improve employee wellbeing and productivity through healthier digital habits.
What started as a local initiative has grown into a nationwide movement, proving that ideas from Shropshire can make a real impact across the country.
Record-Breaking Participation
Last year's campaign saw organisations representing over 2.58 million people take part. Cadbury UK used 'sleeping bags' for phones in staff canteens, while Paddle UK hosted a 'Cake and Connect' hour. Rolls-Royce sent 'Time Out' bars to employees, Menzies implemented a firm-wide Techtimeout hour, and Cardiff FC involved their academy teams through education sessions and pledge boards.
This year, over 500 organisations have already committed to the initiative, including major employers like BAE Systems, PwC, Mastercard, CBRE, and Capita. Public sector leaders such as the NHS, Environment Agency, RAF, and University College London are also taking part, alongside a diverse mix of schools, charities, councils, and SMEs.
The Power of an Hour
The 2025 theme is 'Connected Not Consumed: The Power of an Hour'. Henson explains the thinking behind it:
"You give your devices seven hours a day - this Techtimeout Tuesday, give yourself just one. I want businesses and individuals to fully embrace the campaign by taking a full hour off screens to collectively feel the positive effect. Together, we can change how the UK works with technology, one Techtimeout at a time."
Steph Henson
The initiative is supported by partners including Mental Health First Aid England, youth charity Positive Social, and Fluid Focus, an app which rewards healthier screen time. Techtimeout is helping tackle digital overload through awareness days, a digital wellbeing workplace charter, and training for digital wellbeing champions in the workplace.
Organisations and individuals can sign up for Techtimeout Tuesday on 2 December 2025 at www.techtimeout.co.uk. For more information about supporting digital wellbeing in your workplace, visit www.thedigitalwellbeingcompany.com.