Poll finds a fifth of older workers feel discriminated against

A recent poll by Canada Life found that nearly a fifth (19%) of older workers in the UK feel discriminated against at work due to their age.

The poll of 2,000 adults also finds that two-fifths (40%) of those aged 18-34 feel their career progression has been limited due to older employees who have senior positions or have spent more time at the company.

Four-fifths (80%) of over-55s who think they will work beyond their state pension age believe they are likely to stay in the same role – with the main reasons being because they like their current job/role (36%) and because it is what they know best (31%) However, across all UK adults who think they will work beyond their state pension age, about a third (32%) are likely to change roles due to wanting a complete change of pace (22%) and because their current role doesn’t pay well enough (22%).

Canada Life says that, with over two-fifths of workers (44%) expecting to work beyond their state pension age, employers will need to ensure they are creating a workplace where employees of all ages can succeed.

UK adults say that flexible working (83%) is the most important asset an employer can offer to support and attract an older workforce. This was closely followed by having more part-time opportunities (82%) and appropriate workplace benefits (79%). A similar number (77%) feel anti-age discrimination policies would help retain an aging workforce, while 76% are looking for new skills training.

Dan Crook, Protection Sales Director at Canada Life, said: “As society continues to evolve, so will our workforce. While we’ve already seen the emergence of the gig economy and a rise in self-employment, the workplace has yet to fully adapt to meet the needs of older employees.

“With one in five over-55s feeling discriminated against at work, employers have a duty of care to create an environment where workers of all ages feel included and thrive. Employers will benefit from carefully considering how they can nurture a diverse workforce. Having employees of all ages will not only create an environment in which workers can share skills and experiences, but it will also bring different perspectives to the table too.”

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