The aim of the research is to investigate the nature and causes of the substantial increase in the number of men of working age in the UK who are no longer either employed or unemployed - i.e. 'economically inactive'. These include, among others, very large numbers who are now recorded as 'permanently sick' and 'early retired'. The research will assess the extent which this withdrawal from the labour market is related to individual and family circumstances and to local economic conditions. In particular, the research will investigate the extent to which inactivity 'disguises' unemployment, especially in the most disadvantaged labour markets.
The survey took place in three towns with contrasting local economic conditions (Barnsley, Chesterfield and Northampton) and four rural areas (South Shropshire, North Norfolk, North Yorkshire and West Cumbria).