The Autumn Budget has drawn criticism from MetLife UK, which says the Chancellor missed a crucial opportunity to prioritise support for people living with long-term sickness. With record numbers out of work due to health-related issues, MetLife argues that more targeted measures were needed to help people return to employment and improve financial resilience. The insurer warns that without meaningful action, both individuals and the wider economy will continue to feel the strain.
Dominic Grinstead, CEO MetLife UK and Head of Employee Benefits EMEA, comments: “The Autumn Budget offered no new support to help people with long-term sickness return to work – a missed opportunity at a time when record numbers are out of the workforce but want to get back. This group is only set to grow, and the Mayfield Report, among others, has already made clear the scale and urgency of the challenge.
While the absolute priority is ensuring employees feel supported during moments of absence, whether short or long-term, without careful management this can unintentionally prolong time away from work, trigger more serious issues, increase costs, and cause greater business disruption.
That’s why the tools that prevent problems from escalating – and intervene early when they arise – are so critical. Quick and targeted action helps employers minimise absence, reduce the risk of long-term ill health, and ensure employees feel properly supported and cared for.”
