News

Over-50s workforce ‘most reliable’

People aged over 50 take less time off work and show better work ethic in employment than younger generations, according to research by RIAS.

The insurer surveyed more than 2,000 people about their attitudes to work and identified older workers as being more dedicated to their jobs than those in younger age groups.

The research finds that 44% of people aged 20-39 admit to lying to their employer in order to avoid work. This compares to just 12% of over-50s.

Younger generations are more likely to see sick leave as ‘additional holiday’. Almost 3 in 10 (29%) 20-39 year-olds agree with this statement compared to just 4% of over-50s.

The survey also found that older workers are less likely to unnecessarily extend their sick leave. More than half (55%) of 20-39 year-olds admit to taking more time off than they needed, and just 12% of over-50s said the same.

Peter Corfield, managing director at RIAS, said:

“Over-50s workers continue to be a vital part of the British workforce and they should be recognised for the contribution they make. They bring a wealth of experience, ambition and knowledge that cannot be underestimated.

“The added benefit to UK business in employing more mature workers is that if they take less time off sick, businesses will save a small fortune in lost sick days every year.”

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