Workers who refuse to take sick days 'cost UK £25bn'

People working through illness rather than taking the day off is costing the economy billions of pounds every year, according to new analysis. The figures come as The Institute for Public Policy Research IPPR) called for a transition to a health-led economy” with employers expected to do more to ensure good workplace health.

- STORM NEWTON

The report – the final major submission to the IPPR Commission on Health and Prosperity – estimates the hidden cost of sickness on the economy has risen by £30bn since 2018. About £25bn of this is down to lower productivity caused by people working through illness rather than taking time off, the report suggests, with the remainder due to actual sick days.

The IPPR describes the UK as “the (literal) sick man of Europe”, with poor quality jobs, overconsumption of unhealthy food, smoking, gambling and low rate of investment impacting public health. It warned that growing sickness will lead to people living longer in poor health, as well as posing a “grave fiscal threat”.

Citing analysis by the Office for Budget Responsibility, the report suggests economic inactivity due to sickness could lead to an £8.9bn reduction in annual tax receipts, as well as higher welfare spending and higher healthcare spending.