Employing and supporting older workers

As the UK population ages, there will be an increase in people working longer and past the traditional retirement age. Older workers will account for a growing proportion of the workforce. Today, workers aged 50 years and over make up a third of the working-age population, and this continues to be the fastest-growing age group in employment.

Employers should understand the specific needs and expectations of older workers, identify the challenges of an ageing workforce, and know the benefits that older workers can bring to businesses. Employers need to consider older workers when recruiting, alongside the training and retaining of staff. Businesses should consider age-related policies and practices that can help ensure equal opportunities for staff of all ages. An age-diverse workforce can bring many benefits to a business.

This guide outlines the employment rights of older workers, challenges older workers face in the workplace, ways in which your business can support older staff, and the benefits of employing an ageing workforce.