A new study highlights a significant link between job inflexibility and workforce exit following health issues.
- Research tracked over 9,000 UK workers, revealing critical insights over a four-year period.
- Individuals without flexible job options are four times more likely to exit after a health decline.
- The study emphasizes the need for policy changes to support workers with health challenges.
- Occupational health services remain under-utilized, despite their proven benefits in retaining employees.
A recent longitudinal study involving over 9,000 UK workers reveals that employees without any flexibility in their jobs are four times more likely to leave work following health setbacks. This finding poses a substantial challenge to the Government’s initiative to ‘Get Britain Working.’
Data from the study showed that 9% of employees who experienced a health decline exited the workforce within the study period, with nearly half doing so within the first year. Interestingly, men were slightly more likely to leave than women within the first year.
The presence of multiple health conditions dramatically increases the likelihood of leaving work. Employees with one health issue were 1.5 times more likely to exit, while those with two or more conditions faced even higher risks.
Employers acknowledge the negative impact of poor employee health on their organization’s performance. However, less than half offer flexible working arrangements, pointing to a disconnect between awareness and action in supporting employee health.
The Work Foundation report urges for revisions in employment rights and occupational health services, highlighting how early intervention can retain workers and calls for strategic changes from both the Government and employers.
Poor mental health compounded with other health issues also significantly raises the risk of workforce exit. The study urges for improved management of workplace health risks and more robust support systems for those affected.
Professor Stavroula Leka highlights the inadequacy of the UK’s current system compared to other nations. The lack of emphasis on prevention and early intervention is a critical gap in supporting ill workers to remain employed.
The report recommends policies like secure flexible working, updated health and safety regulations, improved occupational health services, and increased statutory sick pay to address these challenges effectively.
Addressing the root causes of workforce exit due to health declines is crucial for sustainable employment solutions.
