Older Workers: Discrimination

The department recognises the challenges that women over 60 can face when seeking to access employment after leaving long-term professional roles and in securing roles that reflect their skills and experience. We value the wealth of skills and experience that midlife workers bring to the workplace and the economy and are committed to supporting them to find work through a wide-ranging strategy that promotes inclusion, flexibility and progression.

For those aged 50 and over, and in receipt of benefits, we provide additional dedicated support in Jobcentres, including through our 50PLUS Champions, who ensure that the specific needs of midlife workers are recognised and met. This includes facilitating engagement with local employers, promoting age inclusive policies, and supporting work coaches to deliver activity locally. We also work closely with local employers and partners to expand the opportunities, training and employment support available to customers aged 50 and over.

We also offer the Midlife MOT to help individuals assess their health, skills and finances, and direct them to guidance to support their return to work. There is also a digital version available to everyone. The National Careers Service also provides free impartial advice on careers, skills and the labour market in England, accessible to everyone. Alongside this, the department works with employers to promote age-inclusive recruitment and retention, including through the Age Friendly Employer Pledge.

As part of our wider plans to Get Britain Working, we are creating a Jobs and Careers Service, with an enhanced focus on skills and careers, available to all. Support will be more inclusive and better tailored to individual’s needs, including those over 60, to help them move back into good, meaningful work and progress in work.