Starmer Pushes for Long-term Sick to Seek Work with NHS Support

New government initiative aims to reduce economic inactivity by prioritizing healthcare reforms and job assistance for long-term sick claimants.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer advocates for long-term sickness benefit claimants to seek employment if able, with government support to facilitate their return to work.
Health Secretary Wes Streeting announces 'crack teams' of top clinicians to target hospitals in areas with high economic inactivity, aiming to cut waiting lists and treat more patients.
The initiative includes 'Formula One pit stop' surgery clinics to boost surgical productivity, modeled after successful schemes at Guys and St Thomas' Hospital.
Reports indicate a significant rise in long-term sickness, with 2.8 million people currently out of work due to ill-health, a number projected to increase without intervention.
Work and Pensions Secretary Liz Kendall highlights additional measures to address youth unemployment, including partnerships with sports and arts organizations to engage young people.