THE TUC has stressed the “essential” value older people bring to the workplace after a new report found highly educated people are the most ageist.

A survey published today has shown that a “significant” proportion of the population hold unfounded stereotypes about the abilities of older workers — with men, younger generations, and people who hire and manage people over 50 the most likely to hold these prejudices.

Dr Carole Easton, chief executive of Centre for Ageing Better which conducted the poll, said: “The proportion of people who fail to see the value and benefits of employing people in their 50s and 60s is worryingly high, but sadly also not surprising.

“It is so dispiriting that these attitudes persist when older workers have such potential to tackle skills shortages, help businesses to thrive and grow our national economy.

“It is also concerning that the prevalence of ageist attitudes is higher among people with the highest educational qualifications who are most likely to make decisions around hiring, promoting and developing workers who are in their 50s and 60s.

“Little wonder that older workers are less likely to receive in-work training, are more likely to be made redundant and experience greater difficulties finding work.”

One in four respondents said it did not make business sense to employ someone over 50 because they will be a slow worker who will not be able to adapt.

More than one in five said it was a waste of resources to give in-job training to someone over 50 because they do not think older workers are likely to stay in their role for long.

The survey also revealed that one in three members of the public think that people become less competent using technology as they get older.

TUC general secretary Paul Nowak said: “Everyone deserves respect and fair treatment at work.

“Nobody should be denied employment opportunities, receive lower pay or face discrimination because of their age.

“Older workers contribute hugely to our economy and society — bringing vital experience that enriches teams and drives innovation.

“Their contribution is essential for tackling skills gaps, mentoring younger workers and creating work environments where everyone thrives.”

Disabled People Against Cuts co-founder Linda Burnip noted the double standards over ageist employers voting “older politicians into office over and over again” despite ministers often having younger staff to deal with technology.

National Pensioners Convention general secretary Jan Shortt said: “The NPC agrees wholeheartedly with the outcome of the Centre for Ageing Better survey on ageism.

“Older people are stereotyped as either sitting at home huddled under blankets or doing sport of some kind.  There is no recognition that the skills, knowledge, experience and work ethics we gathered in our working lives are transferable even though our age may give us some challenges. 

“Our older people are vibrant, creative, hard working and caring and the government and society at large must start recognising our value and worth.”