How many people are out of work due to long-term sickness?
The ONS estimated 2.78 million people aged 16 to 64 were economically inactive because of long-term sickness in May to July 2026, in the release of 15 September 2026. The figure is published as series LF69 and in the INAC01 dataset, which gives every reason for inactivity.
In total, 9.12 million people aged 16 to 64 were economically inactive, an inactivity rate of 20.9%. Inactive means neither in work nor looking for work, so these people are not counted as unemployed.
The figures come from the Labour Force Survey, which has had low response rates, so the ONS advises focusing on longer-term trends. Benefit counts, such as people on health-related Universal Credit, measure something different. See the economic inactivity rate.
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This answer says where the official figures are published and how they are defined. It gives no verdict on any claim. To report an error, send a correction request. More questions about work, pay and employment: all Work, pay and employment questions.