Premature deaths, a tragic term that plagued the COVID-19 pandemic, have returned to the spotlight according to the latest survey by BMJ Public Health. The study, based on Scottish data, suggests that premature deaths will increase by 6.5% this year due to the ongoing cost of living crisis. With an estimated additional 30 deaths per 100,000 people, the study indicates that the baseline rate of premature deaths could rise from 463 to 493 per 100,000 people. These dire predictions are likely to apply to the rest of the UK as well, calling for urgent attention to address the increasing mortality rates.
BMJ conducted various scenarios based on evidence suggesting a correlation between lower incomes and poorer health. The study modelled the effects of recent high inflation on incomes and how mitigation measures, such as governmental support, would impact death rates and life expectancy. The research concluded that the mortality impacts of inflation and real-terms income reduction would be significantly negative, leading to pronounced inequalities in experiencing these effects.
Meanwhile pensions minister Baroness Ros Altmann has recommended that Britain should consider implementing a Swedish-style three-day working week for individuals over 50. This proposal aims to encourage older people to remain in the workforce instead of retiring early, addressing some of the workforce challenges faced by the country. To incentivise employers to hire older workers, Baroness Altmann suggests providing tax breaks, highlighting the value that older individuals bring to the workforce. Presently, tax breaks are only available to workers over 66, prompting the Baroness to question their allocation. She also calls for employers to offer more flexible and part-time work options, with the potential for job sharing opportunities similar to those provided to mothers.
Finally supermarket Aldi has joined the ranks of retailers implementing body-worn cameras as part of their efforts to combat rising rates of shoplifting. Chief Executive Giles Hurley announced the trial during the company’s annual results, acknowledging the industry-wide uptick in shoplifting incidents. The cameras, currently being tested in select Aldi stores, form part of a range of security measures implemented by the company to address this concern. Morrisons and Tesco have already taken similar measures, with the former providing body cams to all store workers. Once Aldi’s trial concludes, a decision will be made regarding the future use of these cameras.
