The Ageing Workforce and Employers in Fife

The Scottish population is ageing. This will have a significant impact on labour market and employment practices. Increasing numbers of older workers (those aged 50 plus) are remaining in work as a result of the abolishment of the Default Retirement Age and the rising State Pension Age. Many would like to work beyond the standard retirement age because of economic and social reasons, although they might wish to work more flexibly. Employers play a crucial role in facilitating the extension of working lives. The aim of the research was to investigate current knowledge, understanding and management of an ageing workforce and older workers amongst workplaces in Fife. The research was carried out by the Employment Research Institute at Edinburgh Napier University. The research methods involved the following stages: • Secondary data analysis to describe the age demographic of the Fife workforce. • An online survey of Fife employers to gather information on business awareness of population ageing; policies and practices; health, safety and wellbeing; and information, support or advice requirements. • Six case studies of workplace practice. Individuals who had managerial roles were interviewed, as well as employees aged 50 plus. • An action planning workshop to gain feedback on the research findings, and to co-produce the action plan and recommendations.