In Britain, inflation is near a four-decade high, food prices are rising, and, according to some forecasts, the economy is already entering a recession. Still, the country is grappling with an additional, unusual problem: a smaller work force. Britain’s labor market shrank during the pandemic, but unlike most other advanced economies, it hasn’t rebounded.

Since early 2020, the number of working age people (16-64 years old) who are not in the work force has increased by more than half a million.

This rise in so-called economic inactivity, in which people aren’t working or looking for work, has become a focal point for British politicians and other policymakers trying to address the nation’s economic stagnation. With more than a million job vacancies being advertised, the government has called on early retirees to come back to work but it’s unclear how many are willing or able to do that.

We would like to speak to people in Britain who have stopped working since the start of the pandemic. We are especially interested in hearing from people over age 50. Did you retire early? Is a health condition or care responsibility keeping you away from employment?

We’d also like to hear about how you are spending your time. Are you caring for someone, or volunteering? Have you returned to full-time education? Are you spending more time with friends or family? Have you picked up a new hobby?

We will not publish any part of your submission without contacting you first. We may use your contact information to follow up with you.

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