UK Risks Losing 600,000 Workers to Health Issues Without Action

An alarming report from the Royal Society of Public Health (RSPH) warns that the UK could see an additional 600,000 workers exit the labour market within the next decade due to long-term health conditions. The analysis highlights the urgent need for a “fundamental shift” in how employers support staff wellbeing. Without substantial changes, the number of economically inactive adults in the UK is expected to surpass 3.3 million by 2035, creating an economic burden estimated at £36 billion annually.

The projected increase of 26% in economic inactivity is equivalent to the entire population of Bristol leaving the workforce. This stark figure has prompted the RSPH to advocate for significant reforms in workplace health strategies, especially for those suffering from conditions such as musculoskeletal disorders, mental health issues, and cardiovascular diseases.

Call for Comprehensive Health Standards

The RSPH’s findings come as the Keep Britain Working review, led by Sir Charlie Mayfield, is set to release its recommendations soon. This independent review aims to address health-related inactivity and propose ways to foster healthy and inclusive workplaces.

William Roberts, the RSPH’s chief executive, stated, “The UK’s productivity crisis is one of the biggest challenges facing our economy, and long-term health conditions in the workforce are a major factor in this.” He emphasized the necessity for a shift in perspective regarding employers’ roles in maintaining employee health, advocating for a national standard applicable to all workers in the UK.

The RSPH has proposed a series of measures to enhance workplace support for employee health. Among these is the establishment of a national health and work standard, ensuring that all UK workers have access to a minimum level of health support.

Sam Atwell, policy and research manager at the Health Foundation, remarked, “The declining health of the working-age population is one of the biggest challenges facing government.” He continued by highlighting that the only sustainable approach to this issue is to keep individuals healthy and employed for longer periods. The upcoming review represents a crucial opportunity to implement meaningful changes, pushing for early interventions in workforce health through clearer standards and access to specialized support.

Current State of Workforce Health Support

Previous analyses by the RSPH revealed that nearly half of the UK workforce lacks access to essential workplace health support, including vaccinations and health checks. Jamie O’Halloran, senior research fellow at the Health Foundation, noted, “To reduce economic inactivity and increase the employment rate, it is essential to harness the role of employers.” He pointed out that such initiatives would benefit not only government efforts but also employers through reduced staff turnover and increased productivity.

The RSPH advocates for raising the minimum support standards across all workplaces while also encouraging businesses to enhance their health initiatives. Investing in employee wellbeing, particularly through training for line managers, can yield benefits for both workers and organizations. Enhanced health and wellbeing among employees can improve overall business performance.

A spokesperson for the UK government responded, stating, “Good work is good for health and good for the economy.” The spokesperson emphasized the government’s commitment to a 10-year health plan aimed at shifting focus from sickness to prevention. This includes empowering frontline healthcare staff, such as general practitioners and physiotherapists, to provide personalized support for patients returning to work.

The forthcoming Keep Britain Working review will explore how employers can further support employee health and foster inclusive workplaces. “Every individual we can help to stay in or return to work transforms not just their own lives but also contributes to our communities and economic growth,” the spokesperson concluded.

The insights from this report underline the importance of proactive measures in workplace health management. As the UK grapples with a potential workforce crisis, the call for a more supportive and health-conscious work environment has never been more urgent.