IOSH demands action to tackle ‘unacceptable’ work-related ill health levels

New figures have revealed that 1.9 million people were suffering from work-related ill health in 2024-25, up from 1.7 million in the previous year.

About half of these cases – 964,000 – related to work-related stress, depression or anxiety.

These cases of work-related ill health meant 35.7 million working days were missed during the year, with the cost to the economy set at £16.4 billion.

Ruth Wilkinson, head of policy and public affairs at the Institution of Occupational Safety and Health, said: “Britain prides itself on being one of the safest and healthiest places to work, yet these statistics tell a different story.

“These figures are unacceptable. They are not just numbers – they are about people and the human cost of workplace harm, which impacts their work and home life.

“It is clear what harm work-related ill health is causing the economy, and where we need to focus our efforts to prevent harm and protect workers.

“We need swift, strong and decisive action from both the government and employers to tackle this issue.

“There needs to be significant investment in prevention. As we said following the recent publication of the Keep Britain Working Review, led by Sir Charlie Mayfield, we need major surgery, not simply a sticking plaster.

“We need to have a focus on prevention of harm at work – rather than just dealing with the after-effects – and protecting and inspiring people through better working conditions and improved health and safety standards. Let’s drive change now.”