LEP calls for businesses to consider older workers

The Lancashire Enterprise Partnership (LEP) has called upon Lancashire businesses to consider recruiting, retraining and upskilling more older workers as they could make a key contribution to the county’s growing economy.

The event, which was organised by the LEP's Skills and Employment Hub and the Department for Work and Pensions, was attended by over 60 employers, skills advisers and recruitment specialists from across Lancashire.

Mr Cowley told delegates: “I encourage all Lancashire businesses to consider the great value and contribution which older workers bring to any workplace. Many have considerable experience in all types of businesses and sectors, and can often bring excellent ‘soft skills’ such as negotiation, problem solving and team building, to any situation. Their insights and expertise drawn from a long working life can also help to tackle a wide range of challenges facing businesses today.

Dr Michele Lawty-Jones, director of the Lancashire Skills Hub, said: “In addition to helping fill job vacancies and driving growth, staying in work can make a highly positive impact on the individual employee, including physical and mental health benefits. Employers adopting flexible working practices, which enable older workers with, for example, caring responsibilities, are reaping the benefits of retaining experience and skills. “Recruiting or retaining more older workers can bring huge benefits to employee, employer, and the whole of the local community, and further help support Lancashire’s wider economic aspirations in terms of job creation and increased enterprise.”