Marvin OnumonuFour in 10 people in workless households across the UK were not working due to long-term illness or disability, analysis from YuLife found.
The figures, based on Office for National Statistics (ONS) Household Annual Population Survey data for 2024, showed health was now the main reason for economic inactivity in every region, ahead of unemployment.
Northern Ireland had the highest proportion at 50.6%, with more than half of people not working in workless households citing sickness or disability.
Scotland and Wales both reported rates over 43%, while the North West was at 43%.
In comparison, just 5.9% in Northern Ireland and 6.5% in Wales said unemployment was the reason for not working.
Across the UK, the average share of people out of work in workless households due to long-term sickness or disability stood at 39.2%.
The North East and West Midlands were both around 40%, while regions such as the East of England, South East and South West reported figures closer to a third.
Sammy Rubin, CEO and founder of YuLife, said: “We know that prevention works, but it has to start early, long before someone ends up on long-term sick leave.
“By turning everyday wellbeing into something visible, trackable, and rewarding, we help people take small steps that add up to major health outcomes.
“And for employers, that’s not just good for people, it’s good for business too.”
