Barnsley launches scheme to tackle worklessness crisis
- A study in Barnsley found that 70% of economically inactive residents would consider working again under the right conditions.
- If applied nationally, this could mobilize three million people into the workforce, boosting the economy by £23 billion annually.
- Barnsley's initiative serves as a potential model for addressing worklessness across the UK.
In a significant initiative, Barnsley has launched a study addressing the issue of worklessness among its residents. The research revealed that a substantial 70% of individuals classified as 'economically inactive' expressed a willingness to return to work if provided with suitable conditions. This finding highlights a potential workforce that, if engaged, could have a transformative impact on the local and national economy. The implications of this study are profound, suggesting that if similar strategies were implemented across the UK, approximately three million people could be encouraged to enter the workforce. This shift could lead to an estimated annual economic boost of £23 billion, alongside a reduction in government spending of £8 billion. Barnsley’s Pathways to Work commission has developed a comprehensive blueprint aimed at facilitating this transition. The report outlines practical steps and strategies to support individuals in overcoming barriers to employment, thereby enhancing their employability and integrating them back into the labor market. This initiative not only aims to alleviate the worklessness crisis in Barnsley but also serves as a model for other regions facing similar challenges. By addressing the needs and circumstances of economically inactive individuals, Barnsley is taking proactive measures to revitalize its economy and contribute to the broader national effort to combat worklessness.