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CHAPTER 14
Realising the potential of older

workers in Scotland

Graham Smith

Scotlandʼs workforce is ageing, resulting in a greater number of adults aged
50 and over in employment or seeking employment than ever before. This
presents significant challenges, particularly for older workers remaining in the
workplace, with barriers such as employer attitudes and legislation often
forcing individuals to reconsider their point of exit from the labour market.
Financial circumstances dictate that, for many, early retirement may not be
an option. The ʻrealising your potentialʼ project encouraged older adults to
reengage in lifelong learning to help improve employability in later life. It was
designed, tested and evaluated by the University of Strathclydeʼs centre for
lifelong learning. The project methodology was framed around double-loop
learning theory and supported individuals through a series of stages to reflect
on past experiences, build confidence and motivation for future planning and
learning and encourage goal setting to achieve future aspirations. Project
findings suggest participation in lifelong learning varies significantly depending
on background and initial educational experiences. Coping with uncertainty
and managing change are also key factors affecting older workers in the
current economic climate, with issues such as job security, changing career
trajectory and working beyond statutory retirement age areas of concern. Also,
access to appropriate advice and guidance in Scotland, for older adults would
appear to be a concern, and project findings will attempt to influence policy
on information, advice and guidance to ensure Scotlandʼs national ʻall-age
guidanceʼ service considers the capacities, needs and aspirations of older
adults.

14.1. Introduction

One of Europeʼs greatest challenges is its ageing population. With many EU
Member States implementing policies and reforms that encourage older adults
to work longer in later life, the employment rate of older adults aged 50+ is