UK Grapples with Rising Long-Term Sickness in Workforce

The United Kingdom is facing a significant challenge as the number of individuals unable to work due to long-term illness continues to rise. Since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, approximately 700,000 more people have joined the ranks of those not working due to health issues, equivalent to 400 individuals exiting the workforce daily.

Keir Starmer, the Labour Party leader, has proposed reforms to address this growing concern. His party aims to implement the "biggest reforms to employment support in a generation," focusing on transforming job centers into career services and integrating support for work, health, and skills.

However, the task of reintegrating those with long-term health conditions into the workforce is complex. Julie, a 46-year-old former bank teller diagnosed with multiple sclerosis, exemplifies the challenges faced by many. Despite her desire to work, her condition severely limits her capabilities.

"I'm in my mid-40s. I was expecting to work up until I was 60, maybe longer than that. If I was fit and healthy, I would be working full-time, I would be earning money, paying into my pension, and I would have been alright. But obviously that hasn't happened."

The economic impact of this trend is substantial. The cost of supporting individuals with disabilities or health conditions is projected to increase from £51 billion before the pandemic to nearly £80 billion by the end of the decade. This situation not only affects public finances but also represents a significant loss of potential productivity for the economy.

Labour's approach includes requiring those on sickness benefits to look for work, a strategy that has drawn both support and criticism. Lord Blunkett, former home and education secretary, advocates for a degree of "tough love" to encourage workforce participation, particularly among young people.

However, experts warn that getting people back to work after prolonged absence is notoriously difficult. Anita Charlesworth, a director at the Health Foundation, emphasizes the importance of early intervention, noting that the chances of returning to work diminish significantly after six weeks of sick leave.

The situation is particularly concerning for young people. In 2021-22, over 60,000 individuals aged 16-24 transitioned directly from education to economic inactivity due to ill health. This trend could have long-lasting effects on their future employment prospects and the broader economy.

Employers also face challenges in accommodating workers with health issues. Paul De Savary, managing director of a care home company, highlights the complexities of integrating individuals with health challenges into roles that require reliability and consistent performance.

As the debate continues, it's clear that addressing the UK's rising long-term sickness in the workforce will require a nuanced approach, balancing support for those unable to work with incentives and opportunities for those who can return to employment.