By hayley - The latest ONS survey estimates that between May and July 2024, 9.3 million people aged 16 to 64 were unemployed, accounting for 21.9% of that demographic.
Alarmingly, a significant proportion of these, approximately 2.79 million were unemployed due to long-term sickness.
For employers, this trend poses a serious challenge, but there are steps they can take to mitigate the issue and support those affected by long-term health conditions. One solution is introducing more flexible working arrangements. Remote working, part-time options, or staggered hours could allow individuals dealing with chronic illness to remain in employment without worsening their condition.
You could also focus on workplace health initiatives. Providing access to occupational health services, counselling, or mental health support can help prevent illnesses from becoming long-term. Furthermore, promoting a healthier work-life balance may reduce stress-related conditions and absenteeism.
Investment in upskilling or retraining programmes for those on long-term sick leave is another crucial step. If returning to their previous role is not feasible, employees could be retrained to take on new responsibilities suited to their current capabilities. This not only helps people re-enter the workforce but also retains valuable experience and knowledge within your business, whilst keeping recruitment costs down.
Lastly, creating an inclusive work culture that accommodates disability and long-term health conditions is essential, and every employer’s responsibility. By making reasonable adjustments, such as modifying duties or providing specialised equipment, employers can help employees with long-term sickness remain productive.
In tackling this complex issue, you not only support your workforce and boost your employer brand, but also help reduce the strain on public resources, ultimately contributing to a healthier, more resilient economy.
Let’s work together to create workplaces that accommodate and uplift everyone.
Hayley
See the link below for further information from the Independent...