This situation means for many continuing working and retaining earning potential is more important than ever before. A massive 60 per cent of respondents said the recession has meant they will have to or want to work longer than originally planned. Yet the economic situation and the lack of support available for over 50s who do lose their job will leave many of them permanently out of work and facing a long and difficult retirement.

Michelle Mitchell Charity Director for Age Concern and Help the Aged said:

“These figures paint an extremely bleak picture for millions of over 50s whose working lives are at risk of being cut short by the recession. Those who do lose their jobs will face significant obstacles to getting back into work leaving them financially vulnerable as they approach retirement. For many over 50s one of the lasting legacies of this recession will be a retirement blighted by poverty.

She added: “During this difficult time we are urging employers to start seeing beyond job applicants’ age and look at the skills experience and commitment older workers have to offer. The Government must also play their part by providing a tailored package of support for over 50s who do lose their jobs – this is currently almost non-existent.”

The charity is today calling on Government to commit to a three point plan to help 50 plus workers through the recession listed below.

1. Scrap the senseless National Default Retirement Age which forces people to retire at 65 and allow people to continue working as long as they want or need to while they are able to do a good job.
2. Provide financial incentives to employers who take on 50 plus workers who have been out of work for more than 6 months.
3. Provide a tailored package of support for unemployed over 50s including specialised training for JobCentre Plus staff to recognise the specific needs of older people job searching and providing them with meaningful holistic support.

The Age and Employment Network (TAEN) a strategic partner of Age Concern and Help the Aged offers an information service for individuals looking for employment or who want to change direction develop their careers or undertake training. They can provide help and signpost people to relevant organisations and a number of useful resources.