REC response to findings of survey about older workers

Responding to a new survey from the Chartered Management Institute (CMI) which found that employers are significantly less open to hiring older workers than bringing in younger talent, REC Director of Campaigns Shazia Ejaz said:

“It is disappointing that so many hirers in larger and smaller organisations are reluctant to take on older workers.

“Last week Chancellor Jeremy Hunt was right to say that Britain needs older workers to return to the workforce. The truth for the businesses surveyed is that they and the economy cannot afford to lose the career experience, skillset and seasoned judgement of older workers in such a tight labour market.

“The CMI survey results show that the government and businesses need to work harder to ensure older workers are being encouraged to stay in the labour market and to get into work.

“Recruiters have the skills to help older workers access work or transition into new careers as over 50s are generally less likely to be seeking work through Job Centre Plus. There are lots of vacancies out there for older workers to be doing so they should not get too discouraged by these findings.”

Ends

Notes to editors:

For more information and interview enquiries, contact the REC Press Office on 020 7009 2157, 020 7009 2129 or pressoffice@rec.uk.com. Outside of regular office hours, please call 07702 568 829.

Click here to view all REC press releases.

The REC is the voice of the recruitment industry, speaking up for great recruiters. We drive standards and empower recruitment businesses to build better futures for great candidates and themselves. We are champions of an industry which is fundamental to the strength of the UK economy.

Find out more about the Recruitment & Employment Confederation at www.rec.uk.com.