Age inequality | Older workers facing 'postcode lottery' for job opportunities

Workers in their 50s and 60s are battling a postcode lottery when it comes to employment opportunities, new research has found.

The Centre for Ageing Better’s State of Ageing 2025 report revealed significant regional variations in job prospects for older workers, with some areas showing a pronounced drop-off in employment rates for people aged 50 and above, compared to younger age groups.

The Centre for Ageing Better says the figures highlight a need for a targeted approach from mayoral authorities aimed at local labour markets, and the delivery of employment support designed for people aged 50 and above.  

The report found, for example, that there are a million more older workers in the South East region compared to the North East, delivering an additional annual boost to the local economy estimated to be worth up to £86 billion, according to the new analysis.