‘Get over-50s back in the workplace’

EMPLOYERS have urged the Government to help tempt over-50s back into the workplace, following warnings that severe staff shortages are contributing to the nation’s economic woes.

Jane Gratton, head of people policy at the British Chambers of Commerce, said: “Businesses rely on the skills and experience that older workers bring to the workplace. But hundreds of thousands of people left the workforce during the pandemic, so we are seeing a worsening of skills shortages and mounting problems for employers.”

She suggested more training and support for workers who became ill would encourage them back. MPS have also called for action.

Thousands of staff aged 50 to 70 quit their jobs during the pandemic, or were made redundant and didn’t look for new employment.

The number of people over 50 classed as economically inactive rose by 493,000 between October 2019 and December 2021. And a survey by the Office for National Statistics found one in five over-50s who quit working did so because of stress or mental health concerns.

Ms Gratton said: “The longer someone is out of work, the more their skills and confidence will suffer, so it’s vital we encourage people back into work quickly.”

Tory MP Mark Pawsey said older workers could be encouraged back with part-time or flexible hours.

A Government spokesman said: “Across our Jobcentres we help this group take stock of their skills, health and wealth when planning their next career move, including through our 50 Plus: Choices offer and Midlife MOTS, and we have dedicated Older Worker champions around the country.”

For the first time since records began, the UK now has more job vacancies than people who are unemployed.

‘Thousands quit in pandemic’