Lord Rose of Asda calls for a reform of the benefits system to address the UK’s increasing worklessness crisis.
- A significant rise in long-term sickness has seen 2.8 million working-age individuals out of work, compared to pre-pandemic figures.
- There is a critical need to ensure the benefits system encourages contribution from those capable of working.
- Business leaders stress the urgency of increasing productivity to combat economic inactivity.
- Educating future generations with appropriate skills is deemed essential to resolving worklessness.
Lord Rose, the chair of a major UK retailer, has highlighted the pressing need for the government to reform the benefits system. He argues that such a reform is crucial to resolving the growing issue of worklessness in the UK, where currently 2.8 million working-age people report being unable to work due to long-term illnesses. This figure has increased from 2.2 million before the pandemic, underscoring the urgent need for change.
In a recent interview, Rose emphasised the importance of enhancing productivity by addressing the economic inactivity of millions. He pointed out that while it is essential to support those genuinely in need, there is also a parallel need to motivate those who are capable of contributing more.
Rose’s comments reflect a broader concern echoed by business secretary Jonathan Reynolds. Reynolds expressed unease regarding the current state of the labour market, particularly the surge in non-working individuals following the pandemic.
As part of the solution, Rose suggests that addressing the worklessness crisis will be a long-term endeavour, potentially taking a decade or more. He stressed the importance of starting from the foundational level, by equipping individuals with the necessary skills for future employment.
Additionally, Rose advocates for a cultural shift in the perception of the workplace. He believes that it should be promoted as a space of opportunity, where individuals can both earn and bolster their self-esteem.
Resolving the UK’s worklessness crisis will require systemic changes and a renewed focus on skill development.
