Over-50s hit by redundancy

Posted 28/07/2009

The number of over-50s looking for work after redundancy has risen sharply since last autumn, according to new figures.

Research by The Age and Employment Network (TAEN) found that in October 2008, 32 per cent of respondents were seeking a job after being made redundant.

However, the latest figures from the group show that this figure now stands at 47 per cent.

TAEN also found that many believe employers are becoming increasingly discriminatory towards older people.

Whereas 63 per cent thought they would be seen as too old by recruiters last year, 72 per cent now hold this opinion.

Chris Ball, chief executive of TAEN, described the findings of the report as “depressing”.

“These shocking figures show the greater barriers the over-50s are facing as the economy has worsened,” he commented.

However, a separate study by the CBI has found that those who are still in employment at the age of 65 have largely been able to retain their jobs.

A survey showed that eight out of ten people who asked to work beyond the default retirement age were allowed to do so.