UK | Manufacturers favour of older workers over school leavers

New research shows employers in manufacturing and engineering are far less likely to offer opportunities to inexperienced young people – whom they would have to train up and supervise more – when there are plenty of “job-ready” older people available to do the work due to Britain’s rising unemployment toll.

The admission from industry employers suggests they are not willing to invest in the future skills needed despite the coalition’s drive to make engineering and manufacturing a priority sector for growth.

The survey of 500 managing directors across small and big businesses found that 48.2pc would hire older staff over young recruits, with 70pc admitting the rise in out-of-work older people will have a “negative impact” on opportunities for the young.

More than a fifth said the increase in unemployed graduates had the same effect, the study by EAL, the qualifications body for the engineering and manufacturing sector, revealed.

Ann Watson, managing director of EAL, said: “The engineering and manufacturing industry is already facing a real challenge to develop the skilled employees needed for the future, as existing staff approach retirement age…

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Read More @ Manufacturers ‘reject school leavers in favour of older workers’ – Telegraph.