UK | Ageism is back

After receiving thousands of rejection letters, 60-year-old Anthony Barlow decided to conduct an experiment. He had been on the dole for more than a year and was becoming convinced his age was the reason. So he responded to a job advert with two applications: one with his real age and another with a date of birth of 1989. He edited his years of experience and qualifications accordingly.

It was no surprise when his less-qualified 23-year-old alter ego got an interview, while Barlow was told he didn’t reach the required standard. “I do believe there is ageism and now I’ve tested it,” he said. “I almost feel like giving up. Young people can’t get employment, so what chance have I got?”…

Barlow is not alone. The over-50s are the worst-hit age group when it comes to long-term unemployment. It is a trend that economists warn will cost the economy dear as the population ages.

Because of the stalled economic recovery the problem is getting worse. The number of over-50s out of work for more than a year has doubled since the start of the recession to stand near a 15-year high, according to official statistics…

Source:

Read More @ Employers accused of ageism as over-50s struggle to get back into work | Society | The Observer.

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