Over-55s who lose job left on scrapheap

MILLIONS of over-55s are still being unfairly consigned to the scrapheap by employers who believe they are ‘past it’, ministers warn today.

Government figures show that one in four women and one in six men who reach state pension age have not worked since they were 55.

Employment minister Esther McVey said that despite an increasing number of older workers being in jobs, the number out of work was a waste of talent and a missed economic opportunity.

She said that if the 1.2million unemployed over-50s had support to find a job, it could add £50billion to the economy.

The Government has already outlawed ageism in the workplace and is now planning a series of measures to support older jobseekers.

From April, they will be offered intensive support, including help to improve online skills and build links with smaller firms. New ‘older workers’ champions’ will offer advice and urge businesses to recognise the benefits of hiring over-50s.

‘Despite the recent impressive trends in those over 50 getting back into work, older workers still in many cases face outdated stereotypes when it comes to business hiring practices,’ said Miss McVey.

‘Not only is this a waste of valuable talent and life skills, but it’s a missed opportunity for businesses to make the most of their experience to support younger colleagues developing their careers.

‘As part of our long-term economic plan, our champions will tackle outdated views that older workers are somehow “past it” so more people get the security of a regular wage.’

Lib Dem Pensions Minister Steve Webb said: ‘It’s clear that old-fashioned and outdated perceptions still persist.’