The vast majority of over-55s do not feel their employer offers them appropriate workplace benefits, according to research from Canada Life.
The insurer’s survey of 2,000 UK adults found just one in four employers had introduced policies specifically aimed at the over-55s, and when asked what was important in supporting them in the workplace, over three-quarters of this group said appropriate workplace benefits (77%).
The research also showed nearly a fifth (18%) of older workers said they do not feel valued as an older employee and over a quarter (28%) of over-55s said there were less opportunities for them to progress in the workplace.
Dan Crook, protection sales director at Canada Life, (pictured) said: “The cost-of-living crisis is putting significant pressures on household finances. Not only is it forcing the older generation to continue working for longer, but in some instances is causing people to do a U-turn on their retirement plans and re-enter the workforce.
“The workplace should be an inclusive environment for people of all ages, and employers need to recognise the different measures and practices required for different employee demands.
“However, our research highlights that there is still a large number of employers who are yet to introduce policies aimed at supporting the older workforce.
“Looking ahead, employee attraction and retention will be vital. Benefits such as group life, group income protection, group critical illness cover, and support services, are called out as examples by employees to help recruitment and retention of a diverse workforce, where everyone feels valued.”