Idleness

UK workers are stuck in low-pay,low-productivity jobs with little training or chance of getting on, leading to in-work poverty. Katy Jones and Ashwin Kumar question the mantra that "work is the best way out of poverty" and argue that the state's engagement with people out of work ignores the needs of lone parents and disabled people and has little concern for skills and career progression.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 192 pages
Publication date: 20 October 2022
Publisher: Agenda Publishing

UK workers are trapped in a vicious cycle of low pay, low productivity, and insecure jobs, with limited training and opportunities for advancement. The prevailing belief that "work is the best way out of poverty" is being challenged by Katy Jones and Ashwin Kumar, who shed light on the pervasive issue of in-work poverty that defines many employment situations. The government's approach to assisting people out of work fails to address the unique needs of lone parents and individuals with disabilities, and shows a lack of concern for skills development and career progression. Moreover, the deterioration of social infrastructure, such as child care and transportation, further exacerbates the barriers to quality work.

In their insightful analysis, Jones and Kumar argue that unemployment should be viewed as a complex issue that requires a holistic approach. Rather than resorting to coercive labor market policies, it is essential to address the broader structural factors that hinder the creation of better paid, quality jobs. This includes investing in education and training programs, providing support for job seekers, and promoting social mobility through policies that address income inequality and promote equal opportunities.

Furthermore, the analysis highlights the need to shift the focus away from individual responsibility and towards the systemic challenges that contribute to unemployment. This includes addressing the growing trend of precarious work, where workers are subjected to low wages, lack of job security, and poor working conditions. It also requires addressing the impact of globalization on the UK economy, where competition for jobs is fierce and wages are often suppressed.

To break free from the low-pay, low-productivity rut, the UK government must prioritize policies that promote job creation, skills development, and social inclusion. This includes investing in infrastructure, supporting small businesses, and implementing policies that address income inequality and promote equal opportunities. It is also essential to recognize the role that employers play in creating quality jobs and to encourage them to invest in their employees and provide fair wages and benefits.

In conclusion, the article by Katy Jones and Ashwin Kumar serves as a timely reminder of the urgent need to address the issue of in-work poverty and promote better paid, quality jobs for UK workers. By adopting a holistic approach and addressing the broader structural factors that contribute to unemployment, the government can create a more prosperous and equitable society for all.

Weight: 212g
Dimension: 129 x 197 x 15 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781788214544