Not Over The Hill
(Ageism in Britain)
In October 2006, Age Discrimination Laws were introduced in Britain. Employers may no longer discriminate against anyone under the age of 65, on grounds of age, and have to give due consideration to any employee wishing to continue working beyond 65.
In a country that appears to be increasingly ageist this can only be welcomed. Official figures indicate 2.8 million people in the UK over the age of 45 are unemployed, and age discrimination is reputedly more common than racism or sexism.
Regrettably, there seems to be a belief among many employers that older people are less adaptable and cannot learn new skills. However, Mary Wesley had her first novel published at the age of 70, and Winston Churchill, voted greatest Britain in a BBC poll, was 66 when he became Prime Minister in 1940.
Employers should remember, the over 50s still have much to offer and with an ageing population may yet be grateful for our skills and experience.
Irene, Maidstone, Kent.