Rising Incivility: The Hidden Consequence of Unemployment

Unemployment and Its Ripple Effect on Society

In recent years, there has been a noticeable rise in societal incivility, a trend that experts link to the growing issue of unemployment. Beyond its economic implications, unemployment has been identified as a root cause for many addictive behaviours and mental health issues, which lead to a loss of purpose and bonding in relationships. As a clinician, researcher, author, and educator, I witness firsthand the struggles of individuals within our communities.The constant state of alertness induced by negative workplace experiences, shattered trust, and the pervasive influence of media promoting addictive behaviors often hinder individuals from absorbing new information, expressing gratitude, or forming new meaningful connections. These issues demand urgent attention and concerted efforts to create environments conducive to growth, trust, and resilience.

This blog explores the current state of the job market in the UK, its impacts on mental health and societal behaviour, and the initiatives aimed at bridging the employment gap.

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Job Vacancies vs. Employment Reality

On May 13, 2024, the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) revealed that there are over 900,000 job vacancies within the UK economy. To tackle this, the government has launched an initiative aimed at providing intensive support to those working less than 18 hours a week, helping them increase their hours and transition into full-time employment. This move is part of a larger strategy to address labour shortages and stimulate economic growth by getting more people into work (GOV.UK).

However, despite the substantial number of vacancies, the reality remains that many individuals, particularly those with high qualifications and extensive experience, are still facing unemployment or underemployment. The Office for National Statistics (ONS) reported that in 2021, over 30% of residents aged 16 and over had Level 4 or above qualifications, yet 18.2% had no qualifications at all. This disparity points to a significant mismatch between available jobs and the skill levels of job seekers (GOV.UK).

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The Qualification Conundrum

Highly qualified individuals, including those with Level 7 qualifications, often struggle to find suitable employment. Meanwhile, the UK education industry actively promotes the recruitment of international students and entices domestic students with promises of lucrative salaries and high-quality living standards. Additionally, demands for professional qualifications often entail membership fees but do not guarantee employment opportunities, adding another layer of complexity to the issue.However, this situation raises pertinent questions regarding job standards and requirements. The coexistence of high vacancy rates and substantial unemployment indicates a failure to effectively align job seekers with available positions. Possible reasons for this mismatch include disparities in skills, geographic location, or job prerequisites.

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Sector-Specific Challenges

Certain sectors, such as the NHS, are experiencing acute workforce shortages and high waiting lists, highlighting systemic issues within procurement systems. To address these challenges, the government has proposed welfare reforms and targeted employment support programs. These initiatives aim to provide tailored support, modernize health assessments, and better align job opportunities with the current work environment (GOV.UK).

However, questions arise about the emotional intelligence and skills match of individuals hired to support welfare reforms. Concerns linger regarding unconscious biases and whether these support personnel are adequately equipped to navigate complex social dynamics. Moreover, many businesses enter the market with the hope of reducing NHS waiting lists but often struggle to attract customers. This raises questions about the state of privatization and collaboration in the UK.

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Privatization and Business Support

The landscape of privatization in the UK is complex. Many businesses, particularly those offering support to individuals in their start-ups or small enterprises, claim to provide assistance but often fall short, leading to false promises and financial burdens. They may demand payments for memberships and additional services, exacerbating the already challenging financial and mental strain on individuals. There is an urgent need for increased transparency and accountability within the business support sector to protect vulnerable individuals from exploitation.

The UK education industry should cease offering false promises and instead prioritize the training of cultural competency for staff and students from diverse backgrounds. Educators need to possess emotional intelligence to fulfill their roles authentically, remaining open to learning, growth, and support. As we navigate the challenges of unemployment and underemployment, it's essential to recognize not only the economic consequences but also the societal and mental health impacts. Promoting an inclusive job market and championing ethical business practices are vital measures for building a fairer and more compassionate society.

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