Anchor pledges to be age-friendly employer

Anchor has signed up to a nationwide programme run by the Centre for Ageing Better to make workplaces age-friendly.

By signing the pledge, the not-for-profit operator will look to improve its recruitment, retention and development processes, to support people aged 50 and over.

Commitment to its equality, diversity and inclusion (EDI) agenda also includes launching more learning and professional development opportunities, making improvements to its recruitment processes, and working to embed EDI across its organisation.

Anchor was awarded ‘silver status’ in the 2021 Inclusive Employers Standard and has colleague networks for under-represented groups and individuals within its organisation. Joining the pledge is an extension of its commitment to creating an age-friendly workplace.

‘We are committed to being inclusive for all and are working hard to enable all colleagues to reach their full potential and feel valued at Anchor,’ said Sarah Jones, Anchor chief executive.

Dr Carole Easton, Centre for Ageing Better chief executive, added: ‘The current labour shortage has been called the most urgent problem facing the UK economy with its impact driving up prices, wages and inflation. Workers in their 50s and 60s are a key, but currently overlooked, solution to resolving the UK’s employment crisis.

‘Older workers can bring much-needed skills and experience to an organisation. Businesses with a 10% higher share of workers over 50 than the average are 1.1% more productive – and multigenerational teams are the most innovative.’