UK Faces 600,000 Worker Exodus Without Enhanced Health Support

A recent report from the Royal Society of Public Health (RSPH) warns that the UK could lose an additional 600,000 workers over the next decade due to long-term health issues unless significant changes are made in workplace health support. The analysis predicts that by 2035, more than 3.3 million adults will be economically inactive, costing the UK economy approximately £36 billion annually. This increase represents a 26% rise, equivalent to the entire population of the city of Bristol exiting the workforce.

The RSPH has called for a “fundamental shift” in how employers address the health and wellbeing of their staff. Many workers currently contend with conditions such as musculoskeletal disorders, mental health challenges, and cardiovascular diseases, which significantly impact their ability to remain productive in the workplace. The findings come ahead of the Keep Britain Working review, set to be published later this month, which is expected to provide recommendations on enhancing workplace health initiatives.

William Roberts, Chief Executive of the RSPH, emphasized the urgency of addressing the productivity crisis facing the UK economy, stating, “The UK’s productivity crisis is one of the biggest challenges facing our economy and long-term health conditions in the workforce are a major factor in this.” He advocates for a national standard of support for employees, ensuring that all UK workers have access to necessary health resources.

In addition to the RSPH’s recommendations, Sam Atwell, Policy and Research Manager at the Health Foundation, noted that the declining health of the working-age population poses a significant challenge for the government. “The only sustainable way to meet this challenge is to keep people healthy and in work for longer,” Atwell remarked. He described the upcoming review as a “vital opportunity” to push for clearer standards and increased access to specialist support for those managing health conditions.

Previous analyses conducted by the RSPH revealed that nearly half of the UK workforce lacks access to essential workplace health services, including vaccinations for seasonal illnesses and routine cardiovascular checks. Jamie O’Halloran, Senior Research Fellow at the Health Foundation, highlighted the importance of employer involvement in reducing economic inactivity. He stated, “Harnessing the role of employers will be essential. Doing so would not only benefit government but also employers themselves – through lower staff turnover, reduced presenteeism, and higher productivity.”

To improve workplace health standards, the RSPH has proposed various measures, including the establishment of a national health and work standard. This would create a baseline for support that all employees should receive. Additionally, O’Halloran advocates for investment in staff, particularly line managers, to enhance employee wellbeing and overall business performance.

In response to these findings, a government spokesperson affirmed the importance of promoting good work for health and economic stability. “Through our 10-year health plan, we’re shifting from sickness to prevention and helping frontline staff like GPs and physiotherapists to provide personalized support for those needing to return to work,” the spokesperson stated. They also noted that the Keep Britain Working review will examine how employers can better support employee health and create inclusive workplaces.

The urgency of these discussions reflects a growing recognition of the interconnectedness of health and economic productivity. As the workforce faces challenges related to long-term health conditions, the need for comprehensive support systems in workplaces becomes increasingly critical.