Record numbers of long-term sick as Hunt prepares back-to-work Budget
The TelegraphThe number of people forced out of the labour market because of long-term sickness has hit a new record, as Jeremy Hunt prepares to unveil his “back to work” Budget. Mr Hunt is expected to announce sanctions and incentives targeting early retirees, parents and people with health problems in an effort to expand Britain’s labour force. ONS figures show that some of the most common issues for inactivity are musculoskeletal among older people, while younger people typically struggle with their mental health. "The number of people entering the workforce has edged up, with a slight decrease in the level of economic inactivity and unemployment largely unchanged.” He added: “Whilst not at pre-pandemic levels by any means, today’s numbers demonstrate a growing workforce, which provides employers with a future of opportunity for business.”