A significant proportion of young Britons aged 18-24, amounting to a quarter, have contemplated exiting the workforce in the past year, highlighting the growing influence of economic inactivity across the 海角视频.
PwC's data indicates that among the wider 海角视频 workforce, 10% are actively considering taking an extended break from work, while another 20% have thought about it over the last year, as reported by .
This development coincides with an alarming concern among 90% of employers regarding a surge in economic inactivity.
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The concept of economic inactivity, which encompasses individuals not seeking or unavailable for work, rose to encompass 22% of working-age adults last year, as per figures from the Office for National Statistics (ONS).
In a PwC survey involving more than 300 companies, 60% reported witnessing a rise in staff members opting out of the workforce.
"Economic inactivity is a very real problem for people and businesses. As well as the cost to individuals, businesses are understandably concerned about the direct impact on productivity and financial performance," commented Marco Amitrano, senior partner at PwC 海角视频.
Indeed, a vast majority of employers, 81%, acknowledged that productivity has suffered due to economic inactivity, with 77% noting that departures from the workforce have negatively affected their financial results.
Despite widespread apprehension about inactivity, many employers seem hesitant to address the issue directly, with 57% expressing reservations about hiring someone who has been out of the workforce.
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The survey found that 37 per cent of respondents associated inactivity with individuals "gaming the system", although the majority believe that the most significant obstacles for people re-entering the workforce are gaps in skills and education.
PwC pinpointed two primary reasons for those contemplating becoming economically inactive: mental health issues and unfulfilling work, with the former being the most crucial for young workers.
Despite indicating they were considering additional support, the survey revealed a distinct discrepancy in what employers planned to offer, as they emphasised benefits such as company car schemes over culture or health support.
Katie Johnston, local and devolved government leader at PwC, stressed the need for collective action: "If we are serious about reducing economic inactivity and contributing to the government's ambition of economic growth, then we need joined-up action not only helping people back into work, but more importantly stemming the flow of people out of the work,".
She further added, "This is not an issue for government alone, it needs close collaboration between central and local government, health and education providers and employers."