A new project is due to commence in the Yorkshire and Humber region promoting the contribution of workers aged 50+ in the labour market. The transnational project will be funded by the European Commission under Article 6 ‘Innovative approaches to the management of change’.
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At present In the UK, 30% of the working age population are over 50 and in the next 20 years this is expected to grow to 40%. Recent research published by the Department for Work and Pensions also shows that the proportion of people in work over the age of 50 declines sharply. The figures showed that just under half (47%) of people aged 50-69 were in paid employment. These trends will constitute a significant challenge for the region in terms of being able to maintain economic growth and sustain social support systems.
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The project will be delivered by a range of partners in the UK including the TUC, Job Centre Plus, Encore Recruitment, the Third Age Employment Network, the Learning & Skills Council, Acas and local employers as well as partners from Spain, the Netherlands, Greece and Hungary. The project aims to develop age management tools and strategies to encourage the continued participation and or re-entry of older workers in the labour market. Through engaging with local employers the project will work to dispel the myths surrounding the employment of older workers, thereby helping to open up the employment market.
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The project is due to commence on 1st November 2004 and continue until 31st October 2006. For further information please contact Emma Jones, Fair Play Partnership on 0113 262 2789 or emma@fairplaypartnership.org.uk .
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