- New measures set to help quarter of all jobseekers on
benefits get back into work
- Multi-million package will increase Jobcentre support for
over 50s including those thinking about retirement
- Long term unemployed will be referred to the
multi-billion-pound Restart scheme which is already supporting a
quarter of a million back into work
The Government has today announced millions of pounds of new
measures to tackle unemployment amongst the over 50s on benefits.
The new support follows Ministers meeting their target to get
half a million people into work in under 6 months as part of the
Way to Work jobs push launched in January.
Keeping up the momentum, £22 million will be invested in new
measures to tackle unemployment amongst the over 50s on benefits,
as a stable income is the best route for people to support
themselves through challenging times.
Jobseekers over the age of 50 will have more one-to-one support
at Jobcentres to help them get into, and progress in work,
boosting their earnings ahead of retirement.
This increased support will be boosted by 37 50PLUS Champions
covering every district across England, Wales and Scotland who
will work with local employers to help them realise how their
recruitment could benefit from the talent of older workers.
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.
Minister for Employment, 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.
“Supporting people to find a job they can earn and progress in,
is also one of the best ways 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.”
Research shows that people over 50 are more likely to have caring
responsibilities, with 12% of men and 16% of women aged 55-64
providing informal care and increased support from Work Coaches
will help them navigate these barriers.
With the economy back on its feet, and the demand for experienced
staff, the advice will help older workers make the right choice
for them. And for those who have been out of work for 9 months,
the government’s Restart scheme will provide a year of intensive
support to get them back on the career ladder.
One year since its launch, the Restart scheme is already seeing
the first jobseekers take up work and leave the scheme and is
currently supporting a quarter of a million people get the skills
they need to re-enter the workforce.
This is part of the governments renewed focus on growing the
economy and helping people find work and boost their earnings.
