The research, conducted by YouGov on behalf of Investors in People UK, also revealed that 78 per cent of employees believe their boss has let them down in the past, while 55 per cent thought their superiors only have their best interests in mind when it suits them.

According to the survey, released to mark to the beginning of Investors in People Week, workers are most likely to think that their boss will let them down by failing to provide adequate support.

Also, managers were identified as withholding information which impacts on staff and failing to respond to their concerns.

Simon Jones, acting chief executive at Investors in People UK, stated: "Lack of trust in UK workplaces is a major concern. Trust is fundamental to building and maintaining effective relationships between managers and teams, and the bedrock of success."

Formed in 1993, Investors in People UK aims to improve working life, from employee relations to business development.