“We welcome the news that more people aged 50 to 74 are in work than ever before. Yet while the employment rate for over 50s shows positive signs of growth, the averages mask inequalities, with many people facing barriers to the labour market or working fewer hours than they would like. Too many people over the age of 50 are pushed out of work, through redundancy, ill health, or because they need to balance work and care.
“Part time work and self-employment are a growing trend for many older workers. While this can provide flexible and fulfilling work for many people, for others it is the result of a lack of choice of other types of employment. The benefits of work are important – it gives meaning and purpose, provides social contact and keeps us active. We need to ensure that people are able to make informed decisions and have control over where, when and how they work in later life.
“We want more people aged 50 years and over to be in fulfilling work that supports a good later life. It’s very encouraging to see Employment Minister Damian Hinds’ call for businesses to create more opportunities for older workers, which we fully support.”
