Economy The recruitment squeeze ahead
NewsApril 2nd, 2024
The Coronavirus outbreak and response to it have had a dramatic effect on people’s livelihoods.
This timely paper explores the effects of the Coronavirus outbreak on people in Wales and suggests immediate action that should be taken. The effect has been to deepen inequalities between age groups, genders and ethnic groups, as well as to worsen income inequalities. Key findings are:
Job security: Workers are experiencing increased job insecurity, with lower paid workers, workers with atypical arrangements, young workers and women being at most risk.
Pay: Furlough has protected workers from losing their earnings completely, although the majority of those furloughed have seen their pay fall. Young workers and those on already-low pay have been affected most.
Health: Some occupations have experienced a significantly heightened risk of death from Covid-19. Many are roles in which women and / or some ethnic groups are disproportionately represented, and many of which are low paid.
Worker voice: Trades unions are playing an active role in addressing some of the challenges workers face, but worker voice is weakest in some foundational economy sectors.
The report also sets out a five-point action plan:
- A jobs and learning guarantee for all
- Economic stimulus for the valleys and rural areas
- Extend and enhance the economic contract
- Action in the foundational economy
- Safe workplaces
Format: PDF 3.1mb
Language: English
Cost: Free
Pages: 13
