A best practice protocol that aims to end age discrimination in recruitment has been launched by Age UK and the Recruitment and Employment Confederation to give older people a better chance of finding work.

The UK’s workforce is ageing: between 2012 and 2022 there will be an additional 3.7 million people aged between 50 and State Pension age which, when coupled with the trend of increasing numbers of people working beyond State Pension age, means there will be far more older workers active in the UK.

The ‘Age Opportunity’ best practice guide calls on recruiters to commit to promoting the strong business case for hiring older workers and help their clients, the employers, appreciate the many benefits that experienced and skilled workers can bring to organisations.

Notwithstanding the existing law against age discrimination, age can still be a consideration during the recruitment process. Some employers still request a maximum age for candidates and use negative stereotypes of older workers to make hiring decisions.

“I am delighted to see the recruitment industry helping its members to better overcome age discriminatory practices,” commented Minister for Pensions, Ros Altmann.

“It is in the interests of both employers and the economy to ensure older job applicants are not overlooked, as they have a wealth of experience and valuable skills that benefit businesses,” she added. “Ensuring mature applicants are considered on their merits rather than written off is vital, especially in our ageing population.”

Contact our Solicitors in Glasgow

To find out how our solicitors based in Glasgow, Scotland, can help with your employment dispute please click here to fill out our online enquiry form or call us today on 0808 278 0754. We look forward to hearing from you.