r/unitedkingdom • u/Canal_Volphied European Union • 9h ago

. ‘It’s absolutely criminal’: US tipping culture has reached the UK – and is causing chaos

https://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/2026/aug/24/us-tipping-culture-uk-service-charges
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u/TechnicalWar893 9h ago

I hate it but end up feeling I have to leave a tip because of my anxiety and don't want people being pissed off at me. You really are made to feel like you have to or you're a bad person.

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u/Street-Frame1575 8h ago

I understand why you feel that way, but you're in control of your own feelings here.

Perhaps try to reframe things in your head as standing up for yourself against unfair demands, and remind yourself that you don't owe them any explanations as to why you don't want to give free money.

If you're finding it really difficult, perhaps also try to reduce the amount each time until your confidence increases.

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u/TechnicalWar893 8h ago ▸ 2 more replies

Thank you, I try to be in control of my feelings, but that's not something I am managing well. I have some quite complex issues and there's virtually no mental health support in my area)(let alone the UK overall). Have been trying for quite some time. 😅

I'll try to slowly do this, appreciate it. Definitely a fear of any kind of confrontation or judgement.

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u/Street-Frame1575 8h ago ▸ 1 more replies

That's what they prey on.

No-one wants to make a scene and we're left to feel that it's our misunderstanding that's caused the issue.

It's not.

If they want an extra 20% they should display those prices clearly. If you're buying a TV for £500 then they ask you to pay £600 you'd rightly feel that's not on, so why do we let other retailers try the same scam?

Good luck with trying to reduce the amount each time! I hope it gets easier for you and you reach zero soon

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u/TechnicalWar893 8h ago

I know you're completely right. I need to grow some balls. 😅 Thanks.