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Managing a mixed-age workforce

Summary

Many employers are currently developing policies, procedures and guidance on age diversity in employment as a result of various factors - both carrots and sticks - including:

  • the Government's launch of a code of practice on this subject, in summer 1999, with the prospect of legislation if employers do not take action voluntarily to stamp out unfair discrimination based on age;

  • an increasing recognition that diversity - including variety in age - among employees can be good for business by helping to reflect the diversity of the customer base; and

  • a desire to achieve greater productivity and profitability as a result of ensuring that the best staff for the job are employed and promoted.

    The Nationwide Building Society and W H Smith are both founder members of the Employers' Forum on Age (EFA).