Businesses need to do more to workspaces to attract over 50s

With the over 50s being encouraged to get back into work, a new report shows that businesses need to do more to attract this demographic.

According to Unispace, 78% of those aged over 45 said that they would make significant improvements to the office space and environment. Incentives cited included access to free lunches (67%) and enhanced amenities (57%).

Interestingly, as many as 45% of the 3,000 people surveyed said they missed the social aspect of the office while working remotely, suggesting that creating the right social set up will be key to attracting and retaining those aged over 50.

Lawrence Mohiuddine, CEO, EMEA at Unispace, said, “With skills shortages still impacting the UK despite the tough economic climate, the plans to encourage those who retired early back into work is a move that many will welcome. However, we cannot overlook the fact that there are reasons why those that fall into this group left in the first place.

“While the current ‘MOT’ plans are focused on re-engaging the over 50s, the role that the office itself plays is crucial. The older segment of the workforce places a clear value on more from the workplace than just having a location to work from.

“While the older workforce clearly values better amenities in the office, it is the social interaction element that today’s firms can ill-afford to ignore. The ability to socialise with peers is a big driver for this age group, but in order to provide this for returning retirees, firms need to encourage others to also make greater use of the workplace.

“How we all interact with the office has evolved significantly in a short space of time and if they are to be truly used as the valuable attraction and retention tool that they should be, workspaces need their own MOT.”

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