Understanding Why Millions in the UK Can’t Find Work

In November 2024, an important article by Kimberley Bond in Metro discussed a big issue in the UK economy: about 11 million people are considered “economically inactive.” This means they are not working but also not officially unemployed. This report shows some of the reasons behind this situation, highlighting challenges that still affect people today.

One major reason many people can’t work is the high cost of childcare. For many parents, especially mothers, the cost to send their kids to nursery (daycare) is often more than what they would earn if they went back to work. Samantha’s story, mentioned in the article, shines a light on how difficult this decision can be for families.

Mental health issues also play a significant role. Many people who want to work face stigma or fear of being treated unfairly by employers due to their mental health struggles. This pressure often leads companies to avoid hiring people with these backgrounds. Therefore, the article calls for better support and flexibility in job arrangements for those dealing with health problems.

Additionally, the UK has seen an increase in health-related benefits for working-age people. While this support is essential, it raises concerns about a generation that might become disconnected from the job market altogether. Many individuals choose not to look for work because their wages are not keeping up with living costs. This means that even if they found a job, the pay might not be enough to cover essential expenses.

The article also highlights that younger generations, like Gen Z, often prefer a job that allows for a work-life balance instead of traditional 9-to-5 careers. This shift means that employers need to adapt to these changing expectations to attract and keep their workers.

The challenges described in Bond’s article not only reflect the situation three months ago but also show ongoing problems that affect the UK economy today. Businesses need to understand these issues and make changes to create a more supportive work environment. By addressing costs, mental health support, and workplace flexibility, the UK can help more people return to work and contribute to the economy.

Many of the challenges facing workers in the UK today are tied to bigger economic problems that started after the Cold War. The rise of crony capitalism and globalization in the 1990s led to a system where a few people benefit the most while many struggle to get by. This trend got worse after the Great Recession in the USA, when the economy was in tough shape. As a result, issues like high childcare costs, mental health struggles, and stagnant wages became more common. To create a better future for everyone, it’s important for governments and businesses to recognize these problems and work together on solutions that support all workers, not just a select few.

Works Cited:

Bond, Kimberley. “The real reason 11,000,000 people in the UK cannot get work.” Metro, 9 Nov. 2024.