As living costs continue to rise, a growing number of retirees are reconsidering their decision to step away from work. The latest research reveals that nearly three in ten (29%) retirees in the UK are contemplating a return to paid employment, driven primarily by financial pressures.
In a world where inflation impacts daily expenses and savings, many older adults find themselves having to delay retirement or return to the workforce. For employers, this shift presents an opportunity to tap into a highly skilled and experienced talent pool.
The Financial Strain on Retirees
Rising inflation has impacted many older adults’ ability to save for retirement. Over half (56%) of retirees surveyed by Indeed Flex noted that inflation had negatively impacted their financial plans. In response, a third (33%) have had to delay their retirement, while 13% of respondents plan to push back their retirement by more than five years.
The increasing costs of living make it particularly challenging for pensioners and retirees who rely on fixed incomes. This demographic is more vulnerable to inflation, especially those depending solely on the state pension. With the UK government also increasing the state pension age, many older workers feel forced to continue working well into their later years.
The Unretired: Returning to the Workforce
Indeed Flex’s research highlights a growing trend: 15% of individuals over 55 have already retired and returned to the workforce. While the primary reason for this shift is financial — with 53% of respondents stating they need extra income — there are other motivators. Nearly one in five (18%) cited a desire to stay busy, and 11% sought more social interaction.
Of those re-entering the workforce for financial reasons, 57% say they need the additional income to cover household bills and essential expenses. Alarmingly, 20% of people over 55 rely solely on a state pension to fund their retirement, and 4% have reported they can’t afford to ever retire. This financial pressure is driving many retirees back to work to regain a sense of financial security.
The Appeal of Temporary and Flexible Roles
For those considering re-entering the workforce, temporary and flexible roles are proving to be an ideal solution. These positions allow retirees to earn extra income without committing to long-term, permanent roles. The flexibility appeals to those who are reluctant to fully return to the demands of full-time work. Instead, they can pick and choose opportunities that fit their schedule, allowing them to maintain a work-life balance that suits their stage of life.
Whether retirees are looking to supplement their pension, cover rising household costs, or save for a family holiday, flexible jobs offer the chance to regain financial independence on their terms.
At Flexi-Jobs, we provide a wide range of flexible and part-time opportunities that cater to older workers. With positions across various industries, retirees can find roles that align with their skills, experience, and lifestyle.
Why Employers Should Embrace Retirees
For employers, this shift presents a unique opportunity. Many industries, especially healthcare, retail, and education, are facing significant staffing shortages. By tapping into the retiree talent pool, employers can address these shortages with motivated, skilled, and experienced workers. Retirees bring reliability, expertise, and a strong work ethic to the workplace, qualities that are increasingly hard to find in today’s job market.
Moreover, by hiring older workers, businesses can foster a multigenerational workforce that benefits from a wealth of diverse experiences and perspectives. Companies that are committed to being age-friendly employers can gain a competitive edge by attracting this underutilized segment of the workforce.
Employers who are interested in exploring the benefits of hiring mature workers can find talented individuals on Flexi-Jobs, where age-friendly opportunities are available across a wide range of sectors.
Conclusion
The return of retirees to the workforce is becoming a reality for many older adults across the UK. Rising living costs, inflation, and financial uncertainties are pushing more people over 55 to consider re-entering the job market. However, flexible and part-time roles offer a solution that allows them to supplement their income while maintaining control over their work-life balance.
At Flexi-Jobs, we connect age-friendly employers with experienced and motivated job seekers over 50. Whether you're looking for flexible roles or trying to find the right talent for your business, visit Flexi-Jobs to explore the opportunities.
Are you a job seeker over 50? Sign up today to create your professional profile and let employers find you. Employers interested in hiring skilled older workers can post jobs and tap into this growing talent pool.
