Employers work with government to tackle ill-health and get people back to work

More than 60 employers are working with the government to tackle ill-health that is keeping people out of work.

The project has been developed in response to Sir Charlie Mayfield’s Keep Britain Working Review which found that one in five working-age adults are now out of the labour force. This is 800,000 more than in 2019 due to the health reasons.

According to figures, the cost of ill-health that prevents work is equal to 7 per cent of GDP.

The government will now work with employers to manage how health issues and disabilities are handled in the work place with the launch of employer-led Vanguards.

Companies including British Airways, Google, Sainsbury’s, Holland and Barrett and Mayoral Combined Authorities have signed up. They will develop and refine workplace health approaches over the next three years to build the evidence base for what works. 

Sir Charlie Mayfield will co-lead a Vanguard Taskforce with Ministers, bringing together employers, disabled people, workers’ representatives, and health experts.

Sir Charlie Mayfield, author of the Keep Britain Working Review, said: "Britain is sliding into an avoidable crisis. Ill-health has become one of the biggest brakes on growth and opportunity. But this is not inevitable. 

"Employers are uniquely placed to make a difference, preventing health issues where possible, supporting people when they arise, and helping them return to work. If we keep Britain working, everyone wins – people, employers, and the state.

"That’s why the action the government is taking forward from my Review is so important. I’m looking forward to working with them and with employers, large and small, to keep people in work, unlock potential and build a healthier, more prosperous Britain."