Use of English

The Cost of Unemployment

For most adults, work provides more than just an income. It also gives structure to the day, a sense of purpose and regular contact with other people. When large numbers of people are (0) LEFT without jobs, the effects are often felt far beyond the individuals concerned. Families may struggle to pay bills, and young people can lose confidence if they are unable to find work after leaving school or college. High unemployment can also place a heavy (1) .......... on public services. Governments may need to spend more on benefits while receiving less money from taxes. In some areas, local shops and businesses (2) .......... a drop in sales because fewer people have money to spend. This can create a difficult (3) .......... in which job losses lead to even less economic activity. The social effects can be serious, too. People who are out of work for a long time may become cut (4) .......... from their communities. In addition, unemployment is sometimes linked (5) .......... higher levels of stress and poor mental health. For this reason, many experts argue that society as a whole should not simply (6) .......... the problem, but invest in training and support. Although no single solution can (7) .......... unemployment completely, practical measures can reduce its effects and help people get (8) .......... on their feet.