Resource created on:

​Flexibility for who? Millennials and mental health in the modern labour market


PDF

Younger workers are more likely to be in part-time, flexible or temporary work, overqualified or self-employed—and this contractual flexibility can be a risk to their mental health. This report outlines the problem and the opportunities to take action.


The UK labour market has evolved over the past 25 years. As a result, today’s generation of younger workers – millennials and centennials (ie those born during or after 1982) – risk losing out on access to permanent, secure and fulfilling work. Compared to previous generations, their work is more likely to feature contractual flexibility (including part-time work, temporary work and self-employment), underemployment and/or overqualification. For some, their experiences at work may be putting their mental health and wellbeing at risk.

This analysis, from the Institute of Public Policy Research and Business in the Community, sheds light on the phenomenon. It discusses implications for mental health and wellbeing, and the opportunities that exist for both employers and government to take action.

As well as the full report, there’s a one-page factsheet containing a 60-second summary, a list of key findings, and proposals for action.

Read more
View resource
Brought to you by:
Business in the Community
Business in the Community

Business in the Community exists to build healthy communities with successful businesses at their heart.

Find out more
Institute for Public Policy Research

The IPPR is a think tank that aims to influence policy in the present and reinvent progressive politics in the future.

Find out more