Peter McGuire Workers Party Representative has reacted angrily as ex-John Lewis Boss warns that Britain is sliding ‘into economic crisis’ over £85bn sickness bill .
Mr McGuire said it did not take long for those who are opposed to the Employment Rights Bill to jump on the bandwagon claiming the bill included some disincentives to hiring people with exsisting illnesses. The report highlighted that there were 800,000 more people out of work now than in 2019 due to health conditions which Sir Charlie Mayfield said is costing employers £85bn a year. Mr McGuire said there has been no detailed breakdown of how that figure was arrived at. Whilst we all wish to see a situation where people can remain in work with health conditions, “one size does not fit all”
The Workers Party noted the claim that some GPs said they found it difficult to judge whether a person is suitable to work while they are ill, but are asked to issue sick notes by patients. This is questionable as the GPs know their patients and their medical conditions and have the responsibility to make those decisions. No account seems to have been taken of the types of jobs individuals carry out or the physical nature of the work, or the mental toll on certain jobs for those with mental health issues.
Mr McGuire said it is hardly surprising given the lasting effects on some following the covid pandemic, or the poverty, deprivation, and health inequalities, and waiting lists for treatment because of the underfunding of the NHS over the past number of years, that more people are suffering ill health. He added employers should make reasonable adjustments for staff to return to work and should shoulder the responsibility especially when the illness is workplace related.
Mr McGuire concluded by saying the department of works and pensions, should also make public the amount of benefits that have to be paid due to the low wage economy that effectively subsidises bad employers. They should also ensure the Employment Bill is passed which could facilitate those wanting to work in sustainable employment without the fear of being unfairly treated or fired because of health conditions or disabilities which would be a real “win win” for all concerned.