New research shows that universal basic income (UBI) could save the NHS billions by preventing mental and physical health problems. UBI could also boost the economy and reduce inequality.
N ew research funded by the National Institute for Health and Social Care Research (NIHR), as part of a project entitled ‘Understanding the prospective public health impact and social feasibility of Universal Basic Income schemes in the UK’, provides compelling evidence in favour of implementing a universal basic income (UBI) in the UK.
The study suggests that UBI has the potential to save the National Health Service (NHS) billions of pounds. UBI could improve overall well-being, stimulate the economy, and reduce inequality by guaranteeing a regular, government-backed income for all.
A strong case
The modelling indicates that a weekly UBI of £75 could prevent up to one million cases of depression and an additional one million physical health symptoms annually. These significant health benefits would result in substantial cost savings for the NHS and cost the government between £274bn-£675bn a year.