Older workers

SIR – Intergenerational workplaces are already a reality and will only become more prevalent as our population ages (“Are you ready for a boss half your age?”, Features, January 23).

In the workplace, one person in three is over 50, with their numbers approaching a record 10 million.

We have found that different age groups all want work that is fulfilling and meaningful. Older workers value work that provides social interaction, (including interaction across generations).

They expect to be treated equally, yet, too often, they miss out on opportunities simply because of their age.

Flexible working should be promoted positively to everyone. Older workers should have the same access to training, mentoring, career progression or leadership as workers of other ages. Patrick Thomson

Senior Programme Manager, Work The Centre for Ageing Better London EC1

SIR – I read with interest Charles Moore’s article (Comment, January 22) on mature people forging second careers in teaching.

At the age of 49, after a fairly successful career in IT sales and marketing, I retrained as a teacher in business studies and economics. The next nine years at a secondary school in Oxfordshire were, without doubt, the most enjoyable and fulfilling of my working life.

Now retired, I have wonderful memories, a bagful of funny stories and a small but welcome annual pension.

My advice to anyone thinking of a similar move is to take the plunge. You will find the water invigorating. Chris Whymark

Halesworth, Suffolk