laterlife.com supports
the Age Positive Campaign, the new Government initiative to tackle age discrimination and
promote the business benefits of age diversity in the workplace
Here, some famous names
provides their Statements of Support
Sir Bobby Robson – Football Manager
I
support the Age Positive Campaign because I believe that you can always offer
something whatever age you might be. I'm just as good at my job now at 70 as I was
when I was in my forties. In fact I've probably got even more to offer now. To me age is
simply a number - what's important is how you feel on the inside and that you always put
in 100% effort . It's all about the skill and ability - age is irrelevant. The Age
Positive Campaign highlights the importance of a mixed age workforce and the positives
that they can bring to a team. Even in football this is becoming more apparent
nowadays. Don't discriminate, celebrate!
Sir Trevor McDonald – Broadcaster
The Age Positive
Campaign is dedicated to combating ageism in the workplace and encouraging a mixed age
workforce. As a mature worker myself I know how important this message is to employers and
employees alike. I believe that whatever our age we can all bring unique skills and
abilities to the workforce, which can contribute to better business practice. I lend my
wholehearted support to the Minister and the Campaign.
Willy Russell – Playwright
It is often said that
life imitates art. My characters Rita (of Educating Rita) and Shirley Valentine - both
have hidden depths that are not immediately obvious to those around them. These characters
both overcome the kind of negative stereotyping that most people experience at some point
in their lives. But while these characters are able to prove their worth, the reality for
many workers is that this stereotyping has a lasting effect, particularly when they are
looking for employment.
The Age Positive
campaign, which I wholeheartedly support, is key in changing attitudes of employers and
individuals to employing people of all ages. The campaign encourages a person to be judged
on his or her skills and ability and not the age he or she happens to be.
The value of a mixed
age workforce cannot be underestimated. The workplace should be made up of a diverse mix
of people and offer the opportunity for workers of all ages to share their knowledge. I
encourage every individual and employer to embrace the Age Positive campaign.
See the Age Positive website – www.agepositive.gov.uk for more information.
Since this article was written:
The Age Discrimination Act comes into
force in October of 2006 and Laterlife Learning has introduced Workshops
for HR departments to support organisations in preparing for the
legislation:
Preparing for the
Age Discrimination Act
|
Age positive
Champions
2003
