Think Tank Predicts Economic Inactivity Could Increase to 4.3 Million Due to Long-Term Illness

September 18, 2024 TruthUSA

The UK has been labeled the literal ‘sick man of Europe’ by The Institute for Public Policy Research, with a rise in long-term health conditions.

A forecast by a think tank suggests that if current trends continue, the number of economically inactive people due to sickness could reach 4.3 million in five years—a 50 percent increase from the current 2.8 million.

The IPPR’s report published on Tuesday analyzed absence trends pre-COVID-19 lockdowns, revealing that approximately 900,000 individuals are absent from the workforce, exceeding pre-pandemic expectations.

This absence leads to an estimated loss of nearly £5 billion in tax receipts, according to researchers.

The IPPR’s Commission on Health and Prosperity found a correlation between the UK’s declining public health and economic performance.

The report authors attribute the UK’s status as the ‘sick man of Europe’ to the increase in long-term health conditions.

The report highlights challenges for individuals of all ages, emphasizing a worsening health situation both pre- and post-pandemic.

Additionally, the report addresses the issue of ‘spiraling’ inactivity among individuals due to illness.

Liz Kendall, Secretary for Work and Pensions, emphasized the employment challenges posed by rising inactivity rates.

The Labour Market Advisory (LMA) board stated that the UK faces deep-rooted employment challenges, especially among young people.

Efforts to address long-term sickness were made by the previous Conservative government before the July 4 election, acknowledging the harmful effects of individuals falling out of work due to illness.

The IPPR’s commission calls for a preventative approach in healthcare, proposing the establishment of neighborhood health centers and suggesting measures like a ‘right to try’ for individuals on disability benefits, along with taxation on ‘health polluters.’

Lord Ara Darzi, former health minister, highlighted the urgency to address the rising sickness levels and called for a policy transformation in public health.

Last week, Darzi released a detailed report on the state of the NHS, revealing significant challenges in the taxpayer-funded healthcare system.

The findings underscored shortcomings in cancer care, increased waiting times, and a considerable rise in A&E fatalities, urging the government to implement reforms in the 10-year health service plan.

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer echoed the need for NHS reform, emphasizing the importance of structural changes alongside financial support.

Reiterating the IPPR’s findings, the Department of Health and Social Care vowed to shift the NHS focus towards preventive healthcare.

PA Media contributed to this report.

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