‘Older workers forced out and kept out due to ageism’

Almost a third (30 per cent) of over-50s who have retired have felt forced to do so and face big challenges getting back into the workforce if they choose to do so, according to a new survey. 

The Unretirement Uprising report by 55 Redefined  and Reed Talent Solutions is based on a survey of more than 4,000 over-50s across the UK. It finds that two thirds (65 per cent) of over 50s believe their age works against them when applying for jobs, while 70 per cent feel that it is difficult to pursue new career opportunities over the age of 50.

This is despite six in 10 of those surveyed saying they are open to reskilling for a new role. The survey also finds that older workers may be missing out on recruitment opportunities due to a lack of familiarity with LinkedIn. It says just 16 per cent of over-50s are active on LinkedIn while four in five say they have not been contacted by a recruiter in the past 12 months.

Lyndsey Simpson, Founder and CEO of 55/Redefined, said: “While progress has been made across other diversity and inclusion measures, age is falling by the wayside and it’s not just morally wrong, but fiscally irresponsible. In a struggling economy, awash with job vacancies, the over-50s could solve the UK’s talent problems, but action needs to be taken.

“Employers must do deep work to improve their age diversity to mirror the positive change we’ve seen across gender or any other characteristic. Actively looking to attract and retain over-50s – including welcoming the notion of unretirement, giving the over-50s the choice to remain, leave and re-enter the workplace – is key.”

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