Employees off sick cost UK economy £400m a week

Cost of absenteeism on the rise

Claims of depression, anxiety, and stress are soaring among employees in the UK, resulting in a staggering cost of £400 million a week to the economy. Last year, a total of 34 million working days were lost due to job-related ill health, a significant increase from 2010 when 22 million days were lost.

Rising economic impact

The Trade Union Congress estimates that the lost productivity has led to a £21.6 billion decrease in economic output. By 2030, the annual sickness benefits bill is projected to reach £100 billion, with four million people relying on these benefits.

Government's response

Cabinet Minister Pat McFadden expressed concerns about the economic implications of long-term sickness benefits, emphasizing the need to support individuals in finding employment rather than relying on benefits. Plans to reform the Work Capability Assessment are underway to encourage more people to re-enter the workforce and reduce the economic burden.

Labour's stance

Labour is gearing up to address the issue of absenteeism and long-term sickness benefits, with Shadow Home Secretary Chris Philp highlighting the need for individuals to actively seek employment rather than remain on benefits due to anxiety. The government is committed to tackling this issue head-on and promoting workforce participation.