‘In the Bible, God often bestowed a fresh purpose on those approaching old age, to him age was never an issue,’ says Sophie Dianne, as she looks at how the world treats women over fifty.
According to Statista there have been approximately 857,000 job vacancies in the UK since August 2024. Among the 11 million unemployed, are thousands of women aged 50 years and over. They are qualified and experienced but apparently ‘un-hireable.’ The Department for Work and Pensions states that the inactivity rate for women aged 50 to 64 remains high, at 31.3%, compared to men of the same age, (which is significantly lower at 23.2%). So its hardly surprising that 2024 has seen a dramatic increase in women retiring early. For employers this is good news, as older workers cause complex legal issues due to pensions or employee benefits.
In the Bible, God often bestowed a fresh purpose on those approaching old age, to him age was never an issue. It would seem however that secular society disagrees, appearing to deem anyone past 50 obsolete.
Ageism is an issue
Ageism is an issue I have experienced second hand, across various industries, including; the early years, education and the retail. In recent months, women I know have considered early retirement or the prospect of changing careers. I have also seen some decide to stay in toxic work environments because finding a new job seems impossible. These sectors prefer to hirer younger staff as they are cheaper, better equipped for physical work and, more flexible with their time.
Sadly we live in a time where being young and beautiful sells; naturally this makes older women feel insecure and devalued.
Sadly we live in a time where being young and beautiful sells; naturally this makes older women feel insecure and devalued. Radio 4 highlighted this during an episode of PM, the host talked to Anne Cantello, a Communications Advisor. During her career she has worked for the Cabinet Office and PR firms, but when she turned 50, Cantello started looking for a new job, only to be met with frustration. After speaking with a recruitment advisor, she was told her age was deterring employers. Her daughter who works in a similar field, is 30, established but bombarded with job offers.
Under the Employment Equality Regulations (2006), UK employers cannot discriminate against any employee on the basis of age. But the current, mandatory retirement age of 65 suggests that some businesses may be taking advantage and force staff out once they’ve reached their birthday. This also allows recruitment teams to refuse employment to anyone over the age of 65. Having introduced a Menopause component to the Equality Act (2010) it feels like we have taken one step forward, and two steps back.
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Over the summer I tuned into my local news programme and watched a segment about EasyJets new recruitment scheme. The campaign is called Returnships and is specifically targeted at the over 50s. The airline conducted research which showed 1/2 of all over 50s had considered a new career. EasyJet’s Director, Michael Brown said, being a member of cabin crew could fit anyone, regardless of age.
Natalie Matalon from Total Jobs agrees, believing that the older workforce should be utilised; “the ageing population means the workforce is naturally evolving. Organisations that value the experience and diversity of older workers can be of benefit to younger workers, supporting them and addressing talent shortages.”
Lynn Swart is a South African missionary with a passion for seeing transformation in disadvantaged communities, she is also a testament to what God can do later in our lives. As a friend of my church, Lynn came to speak on Sunday, continuing our Bible: book by book series. She spoke with such conviction and gave a powerful testimony about how God encourages us to pursue the dreams he has placed on our hearts, regardless of age.
Lynn was 56 when God gave her a prophecy that would halt her retirement plans. She said: “and I remember when God landed on me, with this idea of the regeneration of a city, the restoration of nation and the revival of a continent.” Lynn felt a wrestle in her heart but prioritized God first and out of that New Day United was built.
As Christians it’s about realigning ourselves with the kingdom and prioritizing God’s plans for our lives. In times of difficulty we forget that ‘we are in the world, but not of it.’ The enemy uses these situations to carry out his deeds, he wants us to feel defeated and alone. This is not the Lord’s way, he cherishes us and will always have a purpose for us, irrespective of age.
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