The UK is facing a looming economic crisis as the number of sick and disabled people out of work rises, threatening the country's prosperity. According to a new report, there are 800,000 more people out of work due to health conditions than in 2019, costing employers £85 billion annually. This problem could worsen without intervention, but a taskforce led by Sir Charlie Mayfield aims to help people return to work. While the move has been broadly welcomed, some business groups have raised concerns about Labour's Employment Rights Bill, which includes disincentives to hiring people with existing illnesses. The state spends £212 billion per year on illness-related inactivity, and people like Loz Sandom, who have mental and physical health conditions, struggle to find jobs. The government has responded by announcing a partnership with over 60 companies to tackle the rising tide of ill-health. However, the Employment Rights Bill has sparked controversy, with some businesses fearing it will stifle growth. The proposed new law includes a right to guaranteed hours and cracks down on zero-hour contracts. Chancellor Rachel Reeves is also aiming to guarantee paid work for young people who have been out of a job for 18 months. The report highlights the need for a preventative approach to illness in the workplace, and the success of the recommendations will depend on the support of businesses and policymakers at a national and regional level.
