WITH the prospect of Brexit already having an effect on the British economy, could one of the solutions be to bring more older staff into the workplace?

According to a report by the accountants PwC, the answer is yes. After analysing employment figures in 34 countries, PwC’s report suggests that improving the rate of employment among over-55s would increase Scotland’s GDP by around £6bn. At a time when the British economy needs any help it can get, that is a potentially hugely positive boost.

However, encouraging older people into work has to be done properly. It is often suggested older staff bring more life experience into a workplace, but older people, particularly women, are often doing low-paid and part-time work. Many people are also working into their old age because they have to rather than because of any search for fulfilment.

If more older workers are to be encouraged into the workforce by choice, then they will have to be given a financial incentive to do so and offered opportunities for development, on their digital skills for example. Employers will also have to change their attitudes because older people are still much less likely to be asked for interview than younger applicants. Older workers can undoubtedly help boost the British economy, but the relationship has to be two-way. An older workforce is not necessarily a happier one.