Workplace Health

The UK workforce is ageing, working for longer and retiring later. From 2004 to 2010, the average age men and women left work rose by a year to 64.6 for men and 62.3 for women, according to the CMO’s annual report of 2015.

The last 20 years (to the end of 2014) have seen a gradual increase to 75.3% in the proportion of people aged 50 to 64 years working or looking for work.

1 in 5 workers do not expect to retire until they are over 70, according to research by the Department for Work and Pensions.

For most people being in ‘good work’ - having a secure job with good working conditions - is good for personal health, organisational productivity and economic prosperity. Having a job can also contribute significantly to boosting self-esteem.

It is important to ensure that employers and employees recognise the critical role the workplace can play in promoting health and wellbeing. There is also a lot that can be done in the workplace to reduce any threats to MSK health, including adapting physical environments and work practices, as well as early interventions to identify and address problems.

Of the 7.2 million people aged 50 to 64 who are employed, 42% report that they are living with at least one health condition or disability. The most prevalent health conditions affecting this age group are:

·       MSK conditions (21%)

·       cardiovascular conditions (17%)

·       depression and anxiety (8%)