A new survey, published today on Time to Talk Day, highlights the widespread frustration among sick and disabled people, particularly those with mental health conditions, who want to work but are not receiving the support they need. According to data from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), nearly half (44%) of people with a mental health condition believe they could work in the future if their health improves. However, many report that the current benefits system fails to offer adequate help or opportunities to transition into work.
Survey Findings: A Stark Picture of Economic Inactivity
The survey, titled The Work Aspirations of Health and Disability Claimants, presents a troubling view of the number of economically inactive young people (aged 16 to 34) due to long-term sickness and mental health conditions. The figure has risen to 270,000, with an alarming 60,000 (26%) increase in just the past year. For all working-age individuals (16 to 64), the total number of economically inactive people due to mental health conditions now stands at 790,000, reflecting a 22% increase over the last year.
Overwhelming Desire to Work: 200,000 Ready for Employment
Despite the challenges, the survey reveals that one-third (32%) of those on health and disability benefits believe they can work either now or in the future. In particular, 5% (around 200,000 people) report they are ready for work immediately if suitable job opportunities and support were available. This suggests a significant untapped workforce, eager to contribute to the economy and improve their living standards.
The Disconnect: Fear of Losing Benefits and Lack of Support
A major issue highlighted by the survey is the fear of losing benefits if individuals attempt to work and fail. Half (50%) of respondents expressed concerns that they would not be able to reclaim their benefits if they attempted paid employment but were unable to sustain it. This creates a disincentive to seek work, trapping many in a cycle of inactivity and dependence on benefits.
Government Response: Reforming the Welfare System
The survey’s findings come as the Work and Pensions Secretary, Liz Kendall, visits the Workbridge charity, an organisation supporting individuals who are unable to work due to mental health conditions. During her visit, Kendall expressed concern over the survey’s findings and stressed the need for a major overhaul of the benefits system. She confirmed that reforms would be unveiled in the Spring, aimed at offering better, more meaningful support to help people with long-term health conditions, including mental health, back into employment.
Key Reforms on the Horizon
The forthcoming reforms will be a central part of the government’s Plan for Change, which aims to boost employment by removing barriers to opportunity. This includes creating a welfare system that supports tailored pathways into work, acknowledging the complex nature of disabilities and health conditions, and improving living standards for those affected. The government also seeks to reduce the growing benefits bill, which has been largely driven by the increase in incapacity claims for mental health conditions.
Addressing the Needs of Young People
The report highlights that for young people, economic inactivity due to long-term illness, especially mental health conditions, can have lasting effects. Kendall stressed that being out of work can have a scarring impact that lasts throughout one’s life, a situation that must be addressed through comprehensive support.
Reforming Mental Health Support and Employment Services
The Green Paper set to be released in Spring will outline key ambitions for creating a fairer system for disabled people, offering tailored support that considers the reality of their health conditions and life circumstances. It will also propose ways to ensure fairness for taxpayers while reducing the escalating benefits bill. The government is committed to working with charities, organisations, and disabled people themselves to ensure their voices are central to shaping reform proposals.
Progress So Far: Support Through NHS and Government Initiatives
Steps have already been taken to address these issues. A record number of people with mental health conditions are receiving employment advice through the NHS Talking Therapies programme. Additionally, the government has secured record funding for the NHS, including commitments to hire 8,500 more mental health staff and provide mental health support teams in schools and open-access mental health hubs in communities across the UK.
Conclusion: A Vision for the Future
The government’s upcoming reforms aim to break the cycle of economic inactivity and support people with mental health conditions to re-enter the workforce. This will be crucial not only for individuals but also for businesses and the wider economy, as the untapped talent of those with health conditions is finally given the opportunity to contribute.
