The COVID-19 pandemic has had a devastating impact on the global economy, leading to job losses and reduced wages for many workers. As a result, a growing number of people are at risk of relative poverty, particularly those who have been made redundant or had their hours reduced in 2020-2021.
The UK government has implemented a number of measures to help protect those at risk of poverty, including the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme and the Self-Employment Income Support Scheme. However, these measures are not enough to protect all workers, particularly those who have been made redundant or had their hours reduced in 2020-2021.
One group of workers particularly at risk of relative poverty are those who have left the workforce in 2020-2021. This could include those who have retired, taken a career break, or become stay-at-home parents. These workers may not be eligible for the government’s support schemes, and may find it difficult to re-enter the workforce due to the current economic climate.
The risk of relative poverty is particularly acute for older workers who have left the workforce. Older workers are more likely to have lower levels of savings, and may find it difficult to re-enter the workforce due to age discrimination. They may also be less likely to have access to digital technologies which could help them find new employment opportunities.
It is essential that the government takes steps to protect those at risk of relative poverty, including those who have left the workforce in 2020-2021. This could include providing targeted support for older workers, such as access to digital skills training and job search assistance. It could also include providing additional financial support for those who have left the workforce, such as a one-off payment or an extended period of unemployment benefits.
In conclusion, 2020-2021 has been a difficult year for many workers, and those who have left the workforce are particularly at risk of relative poverty. It is essential that the government takes steps to protect these workers, including providing targeted support and additional financial assistance. Only then can we ensure that no one is left behind in the current economic crisis.