Pollen Panic – How Brits Are Coping with Hay Fever Season

By Editor1SYS | May 12, 2025 0 Comments

Spring is here, and for millions in the UK it has brought a surge in hay fever symptoms, marking a particularly challenging season for allergy sufferers as pollen levels reach an all-time high across the UK. 

According to new research by local services marketplace Airtasker, nearly a third of UK adults say hay fever is disrupting their everyday routines and 43% admit they’re choosing to stay indoors entirely just to avoid the dreaded pollen. 

The survey also revealed that 12% of respondents would consider relocating to an area with lower pollen levels to avoid symptoms, showing the extent of discomfort caused by allergic reactions such as sneezing, congestion, itchy eyes and fatigue.

And it’s not just the average Brit suffering, in fact Tottenham resident Ryan Edwards described encountering a well-dressed man who bore a strong resemblance to former football legend David Beckham. 

“I thought, ‘That’s got to be Beckham,” Ryan said. “He looked bang on – same style, same tats. I handed him a tissue and he said, ‘Thanks mate, I’m really struggling today.’ Absolute gent. He even stopped for a few selfies!” 

The sighting quickly stirred a buzz online with people posting on Instagram about the ‘spotting’. Despite Beckham himself previously sharing about his struggles with hay fever on social media, adding likelihood to the encounter, it just turned out to be a very good lookalike walking the streets of London. 

In response to this, to help those suffering with symptoms, Airtasker has kickstarted the ‘Allergy Air-vengers’– a new initiative aimed at connecting hay fever sufferers with local Taskers who can take on chores and errands they’d rather avoid during allergy flare-ups. Whether it’s walking the dog, cutting the grass or doing the weekly shopping trip, help is just a few clicks away and Taskers can earn money while lending a hand!

With tree pollen already causing havoc this season and grass pollen season just around the corner starting in mid-May to July in the UK, those lucky enough to avoid hay fever have a great opportunity to earn some extra money on the side. If you’re a seasoned gardener , all round handyman or simply have some spare time and skills to help others, now’s the perfect time to sign up to the platform and lend a hand to those sidelined by hay fever symptoms.