- 3 updates
Government announces more support for older people in work
A series of measures to support workers over the age of 55 has been announced by the Government, who say helping older people in work could boost the economy by billions.
Live updates
Govt employment schemes 'should be for the young'
Taxpayer funded employment schemes "should be for young people", as they need more help and the cost of youth unemployment to the economy is "something like £15bn", the head of the National Youth Agency said.
Chief Executive Fiona Blacke told Good Morning Britain "the economic argument" was stronger for focusing Government resources on combating youth unemployment than it was on supporting over 55s already in work.
Govt: Older workers 'a vast untapped talent'
Workers over 55 are "a vast untapped talent" with a "huge amount" to contribute to any workforce, the Pensions Minister said.
Announcing measures designed to help older people in the workplace, Steve Webb said:
Advertisement
Govt launches scheme to support older people in work
The Government has announced a series of measures to support older people in work, including more healthcare support, which they say could boost the economy by billions.
Pensions minister Steve Webb said the scheme, which also included better access to flexible working and the appointment of an Older Workers' Employment Champion, would help expose the "real strengths" of over 55s.
The employment rate for 55 to 64-year-olds is around 60% and growing, but the Government said the recent improvement has been "relatively modest" compared to many other nations.
Managing director of Bath-based Chris Smith will today visit Marshfield Bakery Chris Smith praised the 16 members of staff over 50 he employed and said:
"Older employees, with their unrivalled experience, play a critical role in our team, including in mentoring and developing their younger colleagues."