UK health-related benefit claims rise from £36bn pre-pandemic to £48bn last year, projected to hit £63bn in four years.

The UK faces a looming crisis as health-related benefit claims soar from £36bn pre-pandemic to £48bn last year, projected to hit £63bn in four years. This surge raises concerns about a "lost generation" of young workers, exacerbated by increased mental health issues. With a significant rise in claims among those under 40, the situation challenges policymakers and employers, especially as AI could eliminate entry-level jobs, further impacting youth employment.