Rising Long-Term Illness Holding Back UK Economy and Workers

Britain has high and rising levels of long-term sickness and inactivity, holding back economic growth and exacerbating labor shortages
Factors likely contributing include long Covid, NHS waiting lists, workplace stress, and austerity measures
Women are disproportionately affected, with 1.5 million economically inactive due to ill health vs 1.3 million men
The government is under pressure to prevent illness and help those on sick leave return to work through tailored programs
Employers can help by allowing flexible working, investing in occupational health, and addressing issues like heavy workloads that contribute to absence