Jobseekers aged 50 or older are being caught by a bizarre contradiction: it is widely agreed in order to get them into employmment – and contribute a significant boost to econmomic growth – they need the carrot of more flexible conditions. But reports suggest employers are hesitant, at least in part, because of recent legislation giving workers new rights to to request changes in working hours or locations, flexibility seen as particularly important for older workers managing health conditions or caring responsibilities. But with almost 1m such job hunters, this is far fom the only road block older workers face. however. Recent rises in employer National Insurance contributions, have increased cost pressures. Meanwhile Rod Flavell, CEO at FDM Group, which describes itself as a global leader in tech and business talent solutions, cited the need for training for skills in the latest technology. “The scale of untapped senior talent is detrimental to UK growth, leaving senior professionals with extended spells out of the labour market and skills gaps that are hard to bridge due to rapidly evolving technology and working norms. From what we’re seeing in the market, these experienced staff are significantly under utilised, especially during a period where businesses are crying out for skills in fast growing areas such as AI.”
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