New research by The Exeter has highlighted the effect of extended illness on the productivity and financial security of working adults in the UK.
The findings reveal widespread disruption to work, personal plans and mental health, with younger adults, men and those working for large- or medium-sized companies the most affected.
The Exeter’s survey of 2,000 UK adults found that almost half (44%) have taken at least four weeks off work during their careers due to illness, injury or mental health challenges. Recent absences are highest among men, with 49% stating they have taken an extended period off work, and 18% of those doing so within the past year. In comparison, 39% of women workers have taken an extended period off work, with 9% of these absences occurring in the last year.
The issue is particularly notable among adults aged 25-34, where 62% report having taken extended leave at some point in their lives.
Extended absences are least common among small business owners (21%), compared to 53% of employees employed by a medium-sized company (50-249 employees) and 51% of employees at larger firms of over 250+ employees, where 22% have taken an extended period off work in the last year.
Where someone lives also seems to influence how likely they are to take extended time off work. Half of respondents in Greater London reported taking an extended period off work – the highest of any region. This compares with just 36% in the West Midlands and 39% in Wales, compared to the national average of 44%.
Furthermore, nearly three in ten (28%) have had to cancel or postpone plans because of NHS delays.
"Extended absences and cancelled plans show how ill health affects not just financial security, but people’s mental wellbeing too," Dawn Prescott, head of healthcare proposition at The Exeter, said.
"These results highlight the growing challenge of meeting public expectations around timely healthcare access, particularly among younger adults who are increasingly impacted by disruptions to work and daily life. We recognise the healthcare pressures facing UK workers and believe we have a role to play in supporting recovery, and in offering protection and healthcare solutions that help individuals manage both financial and emotional pressures when ill health strikes," she continued.
