New IPPR report calls for parity of mental and physical health
Analysis from IPPR (Institute for Public Policy and Research) and Business in the Community presents new evidence that shows younger workers (born since 1982) in part-time and temporary work – as well as those underemployed, are more likely to experience poorer mental health and wellbeing, compared to those in more permanent, secure and/or fulfilling work.
‘There are a compelling business and moral case for employers to support the mental health of all their people by embedding wellbeing, which includes good job design, into the organisational culture. Responsible employers need to have a special focus on promoting and protecting the mental health of younger colleagues. All employees need to feel it’s safe to disclose a mental health issue at work with the reassurance that they will be supported and not judged.’
Louise Aston, Director, Business in the Community Wellbeing Director
In July 2017, the government-commissioned Taylor Review set out the importance of ensuring more people in the UK can access ‘good work’. This new IPPR analysis sheds light on the importance of good work in relation to mental health and wellbeing.
Key findings:
- 1 in 4 younger workers are in part-time work (26%), while 1 in 11 are in temporary work (9%), and 1 in 11 are self-employed (9%).
- 1 in 5 younger workers aged 16-24 are underemployed (19%) – more than double the rate among workers aged 25 and above
- 13% of younger workers are graduates working in non-professional/managerial jobs – almost double the rate compared to 2004 (7%)
During November 2016, Business in the Community and Accenture published ‘ A Brave New World’, a report examining the digital revolution, a revolution that raises a series of challenges, that business must now address. Not least are the major impacts on the workforce, such as losses of jobs due to automation affecting all age groups. The report is a call to action to The Prince’s Responsible Business Network to share their thoughts and ideas on the impact and opportunities of the digital age on responsible business agenda.
Find out more as to how the digital revolution will impact business >>
Olly Benzecry Managing Director, Accenture UKI said:
”It is crucial for UK businesses to work together, with government and the non-profit sector, to tackle head-on the technology skills gaps that 72 per cent of large companies and 49 per cent of UK SMEs are currently suffering from. We must also work to build trust and ensure the benefits of the transition to digital technology are universally accessible.”