All clapped out?
Key workers have kept the country going during the pandemic, but some are facing the worst of the economic turmoil created by it.
Economic Security Observatory
Life in contemporary Britain is increasingly blighted by the threat of economic insecurity.
Over the last two decades, in-work poverty has risen steadily. Wages have flatlined and more workers find it difficult to escape prolonged period of low pay. Our 2019 research found that 30 percent of all workers do not feel they earn enough to maintain a decent standard of living.
What we're doing
We're identifying where gaps in support – from the state, communities or employers – contribute to this rising tide of insecurity.
During the Covid-19 pandemic we will be focusing primarily on the economic security of Britain’s key workers – the workers who kept Britain going during lockdown, saving both lives and livelihoods. As we look to build a better future beyond the pandemic it is vital that those who most helped us get through it are properly supported to enjoy secure and fulfilling lives – at work and beyond.
Share your experience
We're particularly keen to listen and learn from the experience of key workers during the pandemic. Share your story.
Frontline fatigue
Our survey finds key workers feel stressed and at burn-out point. We need a ‘new deal’ to reward and support those who provide critical frontline services.
Funders and partners
Future of Work
Helping everyone, regardless of background or starting point, find good work in an age of technological change.
Latest thinking on the Future of Work
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Snapshots of insecurity: an exploration of personal values and economic insecurity in 2021
Report
Is there a widening divide in Britain? Through fresh data analysis, we have created seven ‘snapshots’ of insecurity in the UK – showing that much of the public faces extreme precarity, and others, financial stability.
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Frontline fatigue
Report
Our survey finds key workers feel stressed and at burn-out point. We need a ‘new deal’ to reward and support those who provide critical frontline services.
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Reskilling Britain in a crisis
Blog
Jake Jooshandeh
With unemployment set to rise and masses of jobs at risk, how we can reinvigorate adult learning?