Damian writes a regular column in the Petersfield Post and this is a copy of the piece published on Wednesday 1st March:
Now in my 48th year, I no longer think of the half-century as being anything close to 'old', but I am conscious I will shortly enter a new demographic, the over 50’s. It's a demographic that has never been larger and where the possibilities have never been so varied.
On Tuesday 11th April, an event will be held in Alton called New Directions, which brings together employment, training and volunteering opportunities for the over 50’s.
People from across the area will have the chance to meet a wide range of employers, training services and voluntary organisations - all under one roof – and each keen to put their skills to work.
I’m excited to see this event come together, as the days are long gone of a single job or career for life ending on a definite retirement date marked with a memento watch. More and more people are looking for new challenges and new opportunities later in life.
And there are good opportunities out there - full time or part time, in paid employment or voluntary work - and often with the greater flexibility sought by many. Older people may also be surprised by the amount of training that is available – help with job applications and CVs, interview practice, job clubs, one-on-one coaching and even apprenticeships. All designed to help people change direction.
We are living, on average, almost a decade longer than our grandparents. This is great news. But it also has implications for employers, and the economy overall, as well as people’s own personal financial security.
Despite the increased longevity, people today are actually leaving the labour market earlier than in 1950.
Employers have long made arrangements to enable parents to take care of a child. Now it is becoming more common to facilitate – short-term or for longer – older workers caring for their parents or partner.
And of course, many older workers themselves play a crucial role in childcare, as grandparents, as well as other valuable work in the community and voluntary sector. We know that for many people, the possibility of flexible or part-time working could tip the balance to them staying in employment longer.
The opportunity for industry is to harness more talent, retain valuable experience and reduce staff turnover. There is an opportunity for all of us individually, too. Staying in work for a few more years can make a significant difference to your income thereafter, and for most people, being in good appropriate work can be good for your health, both physical and mental.
The Government also has a key role to play, including on encouragement of saving and enabling skills to be developed or refreshed.
So, if you’re over 50 (or even under 50) and curious to explore new opportunities, then come along to the New Directions event at Alton College on Tuesday 11th April, between 12 noon and 6pm.
You may be surprised, and even inspired to take a new direction.
If today is the oldest you have ever been, more importantly it is also the youngest you will ever be. There is no better time than now to think about the future.
For more information: www.newdirectionsalton.eventbrite.co.uk or www.damianhinds.com