Commenting on the Budget, Paul Fakley, Engagement Director at British Safety Council, said:
“Well over a million people in the UK say they would like to work but are currently ‘economically inactive’, which is why actions taken to reduce barriers which prevent many people staying in or returning to work are welcome. This includes better support and incentives for disabled people, those with long-term health conditions, the over 50s and parents of young children.
“We know the biggest cause of ill-health or absence from work is stress or poor mental health, followed by musculoskeletal disorders, so the extra money and support announced here is positive, as is funding to help prevent suicide. There was also some extra funding announced for SMEs to provide occupational health support.
“The cost of living will continue to have a big impact on people’s wellbeing, despite the projected fall in inflation this year. Some employers can’t match this with pay increases, but there is much they can still do to support their staff, through financial awareness, flexible working and other incentives like vouchers and rewards.
“We know that good work is good for our mental and physical health, and employers have a vital role in improving the wellbeing of their staff both in and outside of work, which is why we are calling on the Government to go further and develop a National Wellbeing Strategy.”
The full Spring Budget 2023 documents can be found here.