Community
Resource helps over 50s overcome ‘shame and stigma’ of being out of work
The charity held a workshop for people looking to rejoin the job market
March 21, 2025 10:57
The charity held a workshop for people looking to rejoin the job market
March 21, 2025 10:57Employment charity Resource is helping people over 50 back into the workplace who they say often feel “shame and stigma in a community where being employed is highly prized”.
Speaking after a workshop aimed at helping people overcome age-related barriers to finding employment, Resource CEO Victoria Sterman said: “Typically it takes about six months longer for people in the over 50 age group to secure employment than other age groups, during which time clients tend to report heightened feelings of despondency, lack of motivation and often depression.
“In many cases, serious financial concerns to add to their worries. Being part of the Jewish community can be very isolating for unemployed people, who describe feelings of shame and stigma in a community where being employed is highly prized. They feel that everyone knows everyone, and whilst this can be positive in terms of networking, it may limit their desire to participate fully in the community."
Research from the think tank Demos has revealed that many people over 50 left the workforce during the pandemic, with over 800,000 older individuals currently out of work but eager to rejoin the job market.
Additionally, hundreds of thousands of older workers faced the risk of leaving the workforce permanently due to factors such as limited access to flexible working arrangements, ill health or disability, negative workplace experiences and age discrimination, said Resource.
The workshop included a talk from Baroness Ros Altmann CBE, an expert on pensions and later life policy, who shared insights into the current job market, highlighting the importance of older workers to both businesses and the economy.
Participants also heard from employment barrister Jonathan Newman and were given practical advice on how to create an “age-less” CV, prepare for interviews and network professionally. An interactive Q&A panel with career experts provided further insights and advice.
Sterman told the JC: “Older people want to work, and our economy needs them to work. However, there are many barriers that they need to overcome including poor self-confidence, lack of up-to-date digital and technical skills, and in some cases bereavement and health concerns.”
She said that Resource had “achieved outstanding success” in helping people in the over 50 age group secure employment by developing their employability skills and supporting them on a one-to-one basis.
The charity currently supports around 200 people over 50 every year who want to get back into the workforce.