OWL (Older Workers Learning)

The OWL Project will pilot and support the creation of specially tailored support and training for older adults in employment, company managers and Human Resources, across Scotland, to improve skills and increase job retention. It may also involve unemployed individuals aged 50+.

Employers are facing greater competition in attracting and retaining skilled and motivated employees, particularly in rural areas, leading to competitive disadvantage.

Employment participation rates of people aged 50 or older are lower than for the rest of the working population. People aged 50 to 64 constitute about 20% of the workforce, but only 68% of this group are in employment.

European Commission focus is on retaining older workers in the workforce, discouraging early retirement, and looking at ways to increase skills and provide more conducive work patterns.

Two major strands of activity will be undertaken.

The creation of Older Workers Learning (OWL) programmes within companies.

Members of the workforce (aged 50+) will pilot new learning opportunities, using ILT, as well as provide training and support development for volunteer mentors. This will include intensive short term training, support and other interventions.

Sector specific support for both SMEs and workers to explore options and build connections to new career development.

The project will concentrate on the development of new methods for engagement and guidance for older workers (50+), with field-testing. It will focus on employment sectors which are currently considered more appropriate for ‘younger’ workers to find new ways to create age diversity in employment.