Date: 09 June 2026
Author: Jess Clark
It is a business productivity and economic resilience initiative for Hull. Hull has always been defined by resilience, now we have the opportunity to lead again.
The Keep Britain Working Review revealed that economic inactivity is costing the UK £103 billion every year, driven by workforce ill health. Currently, 2.8 million people are unable to work due to health conditions - and by 2030, that number is expected to rise by a further 700,000, adding another £25 billion annually to the cost.
This is not sustainable. It signals a clear need for a new approach to workplace health.
Long-term sickness is rising. NHS pressure is increasing. And SMEs are carrying a disproportionate share of the risk - often without the structured support needed to respond effectively.
These figures reflect what many local businesses are already experiencing day to day. In Hull alone, workforce ill health is estimated to cost around £500 million each year through absence, presenteeism, staff turnover, and lost productivity.
This isn’t a future challenge. It’s a current business risk. So what can employers actually do about it?
On 15th June, a new approach will be launched at the University of Hull.
The Hull Resilience Hub is a business-focused solution, designed specifically for SMEs - the organisations most exposed to workforce health challenges, yet least supported in managing them.
Backed by Hull City Council and aligned with the national Keep Britain Working Review, the Hub brings together:
All delivered through one local hub, with one clear objective: keeping your workforce healthy, present, and productive.
This is about reducing disruption, supporting your team, and strengthening your business - without adding complexity.
FEO has always been about sharing ideas that help businesses grow stronger, faster, and smarter. This initiative sits firmly within that space.
Whether you employ 5 people or 50, workforce health directly impacts your:
Many SMEs are navigating these challenges without the tools or support they need. This is a practical opportunity to change that.
The founding member offer includes:
Sir Charlie Mayfield, who led the Keep Britain Working Review, will share national insight into workforce health and economic inactivity - bringing valuable context to the challenges facing businesses today.
He will be joined by Cllr Mike Ross and Jack Latus, who will outline how Hull can lead the way in employer-led health innovation.
Jack Latus, CEO Latus Health says: “It is a business productivity and economic resilience initiative for Hull. Hull has always been defined by resilience, now we have the opportunity to lead again.”
If you’re thinking about growth, sustainability, and how best to support your team while strengthening your business, this is a conversation worth being part of.
The room on 15th June will be filled with people shaping what comes next.
Secure your place HERE.