Employment of those aged 50 to 64 has risen by 210,000 - almost four per cent - over the past year, according to figures published today.
The numbers in the age group are increasing and so is the population who are working. The employment rate is up by one per cent and the numbers claiming benefit has fallen by almost two per cent.
Employment Minister Andrew Smith, speaking at a UK-Spanish Conference on employment in Oxford, welcomed this improvement saying:
"It is very good news that more older workers are in employment, particularly as the post-war baby boomers are entering this age group. We are determined that all people should have a fair crack of the whip in the jobs market. These figures are encouraging the reinforcement of our policies on tackling age discrimination, and promoting the employment of older workers.
"We have given older workers addditional help with the recent publication of the Government’s Code for Age Diversity in the workplace. It will set the standard for non-ageist approaches to recruitment, training and development, promotion, redundancy and retirement practices in employment."
"We are also launching the New Deal for 50 plus pilot scheme in October, followed by a national roll out early next year. This is further evidence of our commitment to helping older workers to find jobs, by offering them real and substantial support.
"Fairness is at the heart of our approach. It makes absolutely sound business sense for employers to benefit from the range of experience and skills that employees of all ages have to offer."
