UK Grapples with Rising Economic Inactivity Due to Illness
As sickness benefits claims surge, the debate intensifies over the impact of lockdown and benefits system on workforce participation.
- The UK is facing a significant increase in economic inactivity due to long-term illness, with Hastings highlighted as a microcosm of the broader crisis.
- Lockdown and the benefits system are cited as key factors contributing to the rise in worklessness and mental health issues.
- The number of people off work with sickness benefits has surged, with mental and behavioural disorders making up two-thirds of incapacity benefit claims.
- Reforms to the benefits system and work capability assessment procedures are being considered to address the growing welfare bill and encourage workforce participation.
- The debate continues on whether the rise in mental health claims is due to a genuine increase in disorders or an expansion of the definition of mental health.
The Telegraph 