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Bubbles of Belonging at Work: Redrawing Boundaries of Inclusion and Exclusion in UK Restaurants during Brexit

Author

Listed:
  • Laura J Reeves

    (University of Suffolk, UK)

  • Emma Bell

    (Stockholm School of Economics, Sweden)

Abstract

This article examines how Brexit affected EU migrants’ sense of belonging at work by drawing on empirical data from a study of workers in the UK restaurant sector. Brexit was a political project of belonging that led to the formation of new communities at work based on citizenship and national identity. These ‘bubbles’ provided a sense of belonging for EU migrant workers during a period of heightened socio-political tension about migration. However, these bubbles were ruptured by conflict between EU migrants and other workers and managers, and by interactions with customers who become a conduit for socio-political issues to enter the workplace. The article highlights the problems with workplace community building as a strategy of solidarity in political contexts where societal belonging is disrupted. While bubbles of belonging create temporary safe spaces at work, by raising awareness of difference between groups they become a divisive approach to managing employee relations.

Suggested Citation

  • Laura J Reeves & Emma Bell, 2025. "Bubbles of Belonging at Work: Redrawing Boundaries of Inclusion and Exclusion in UK Restaurants during Brexit," Work, Employment & Society, British Sociological Association, vol. 39(6), pages 1329-1350, December.
    • Handle: RePEc:sae:woemps:v:39:y:2025:i:6:p:1329-1350
    DOI: 10.1177/09500170251350063
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    References listed on IDEAS

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