No desire to retire, say over-50s

OLDER workers say they have no desire to retire and are more bothered about agreeing flexible hours, says a study.

Rather than worrying about their health and pensions, over50s are demanding more training and job shares from employers.

Four out of five would like more flexible hours, 73 per cent want more part-time opportunities, and 63 per cent are keen to learn new skills and technology.

About a third said health was the issue they worried most about. Just 11 per cent were concerned at the cost of social care.

The Saga survey of 12,000 over50s backs up official figures earlier this week showing the number of people working past retirement age continuing to rise.

The poll was commissioned by the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy, which is considering creating a ‘duty’ for employers to offer parttime and flexible hours, among other age-friendly initiatives.

Saga’s Karen Caddick said: “For many older workers, staying in work has profound physical and mental benefits, with many reporting that working longer helps improve their overall wellbeing.”

Sixty-five per cent of those questioned said an ageing and diverse society was a positive thing that should be celebrated.

Older people who carry on working will become increasingly wealthy – with over-50s already estimated to hold about 70 per cent of household wealth.

Natasha Oppenheim, chief executive of job search group No Desire To Retire, said: “We have thousands of older workers who have key skills to contribute.

“Hiring an older worker, who often has decades of sector relevant knowledge, on a part-time and flexible basis is a great way for a small company or even a startup to access that wisdom and knowledge in an affordable way.”

Patrick Thomson, of the Centre for Ageing Better, said: “Flexible working can help them to balance work with their caring responsibilities or personal health circumstances, remain in work longer, and enable a phased transition to retirement. Employers benefit from more engaged staff who are likely to stay for longer.”

Small Business Minister Kelly Tolhurst said: “We want to champion the role of older workers and ensure they have equal opportunities so anyone who wants to can work for longer.”