New package of support announced to help over 50s jobseekers

A £22 million investment has been announced to help support jobseekers in the 50s and older get back into stable employment.

The announcement is part of a government push to get half a million jobseekers back into work in under six months after the Way to Work push launched earlier this year.

Over 50s who are out of work will be able to access additional one-to-one support from job centres to help them back into stable employment and boost earnings ahead of retirement. Increased support from Work Coaches will also help the 12% men of 16% of women aged 50 and over who have unpaid caring responsibilities.

Mid-life MOTs will also be available in jobcentres, targeting those thinking about retirement and engaging them to take stock of their skills and finances, and consider taking jobs that could boost their incomes based on their skills experience.

37 50PLUS Champions will also work with local employers across Great Britain and help them explore how they could benefit from accessing the talent of older workers.

Minister for Employment, Mims Davies MP said:

“Older workers are a huge asset to this country, and there are currently more than 400,000 over 50s in roles than before the pandemic.

“We’re increasing funding and support at every step of their journey up the career ladder, to ensure everyone gets the support they need to get into work, progress and use their experience to boost their earnings and plan for a better future. Helping people find the security of a stable income, through a job they can take pride in, is also one of the best ways for people to support their families during these challenging times.”

Carole Easton, Chief Executive at the Centre for Ageing Better, said:

“Seeing DWP continue to recognise the importance of a bespoke approach to older workers is really welcome.

“We know that older workers face unique challenges, such as ageism in the workplace and a possible gap in skills compared to some of their younger counterparts, so we will gladly support any tailored action that begins chip away at these significant roadblocks standing in the way of older people accessing fulfilling work.”