Laura Sharman 08 December 2022

Poor health 'undermining UK economy' think tank warns

Poor health undermining UK economy think tank warns image
Image: Image: tommaso79 / Shutterstock.com

Mental health problems are the most common reason for people being unable to work, new research has revealed.

Analysis by the IPPR found that while poor health of all kinds is undermining the UK economy, six in 10 people who are economically inactive because of long-term illness are living with a mental health problem.

According to the research, 2.5 million people are inactive because of their health, the highest level since records began.

The report found young adults are 50% more likely to report a mental health problem than older working-age adults.

The report makes three recommendations - a shift towards preventing illness, faster access to the NHS, earlier diagnosis and innovative treatments, and better social care services and more inclusive workplaces.

Professor Lord Ara Darzi, commission co-chair, former health minister and Paul Hamlyn chair of Surgery at Imperial College London, said: 'This report shows that we need three, urgent shifts. First, towards prevention – so less people experience avoidable mortality and morbidity. Second, towards more modern healthcare – to help diagnose conditions earlier and treat them more effectively.

'Third, we need to ensure that living with a health condition doesn’t limit people’s economic opportunities. That means creating an inclusive job market and significantly improving adult social care provision.'

The final report, including a full set of policy recommendations, will be published in 2023.

SIGN UP
For your free daily news bulletin
Highways jobs

Cleaner and Caretaker

North Yorkshire Council
£12.65 - £13.47 per hour
Are you looking for a cleaning role that is a little different? Ripon, North Yorkshire
Recuriter: North Yorkshire Council

Cleaner and Caretaker

North Yorkshire Council
£12.65 - £13.47 per hour
Are you looking for a cleaning role that is a little different? Bradley, West Yorkshire
Recuriter: North Yorkshire Council

Specialist Customer Service Officer

Oxfordshire County Council
£31,537 - £34,434 per annum
Are you passionate about helping others and making a real impact in your community? We’re looking for Specialist Customer Service Officers to join our dynamic Contact Centre team, the first point of contact for a wide range of essential services acros Oxfordshire County Council , County Hall, Oxford
Recuriter: Oxfordshire County Council

Cook

North Yorkshire Council
£13.47 - £14.13 per hour
Are you keen to join a friendly team who are committed to making a real impact in their local community? Lancaster, Lancashire
Recuriter: North Yorkshire Council

Catering Assistant

North Yorkshire Council
£12.65 - £12.65 per hour
We have an opportunity to join our award-winning Facilities Management catering team. North Yorkshire
Recuriter: North Yorkshire Council
Linkedin Banner