Three UK companies have won global acclaim for innovative HR and workforce practices that support older employees of 50 plus years.
Centrica, Marks & Spencer and The Coop Group were among 15 organisations around the world that were recognised in the 2011 ‘Best Employers for Workers over 50’ awards.
The event is sponsored by AARP, a US-based not-for-profit membership organisation for older people, and The Age and Employment Network, a UK body that focuses on age and employment issues.
Chris Ball, TAEN’s chief executive, said: “Yet again, entrants gave tangible evidence that the need to retain talent and maintain human capital is a truly ubiquitous challenge, which demands strong policies and practical measures such as flexible working and preservation of health and wellbeing.”
Energy firm Centrica won an accolade for the fourth year running for its flexible working options, carers’ programme and Age Awareness e-course, which is intended to educate staff about age diversity issues.
Retailer Marks & Spencer was recognised for a scheme that enables employees to draw their pensions while continuing to work part-time as well as for its health promotion initiatives.
The Co-op Group, meanwhile, was given an award for its flexible pension options, mandatory training for managers about age diversity and anti-discrimination issues and equal opportunity recruitment practices for older workers.
Organisations in other countries that received commendation were BMW for Germany, the National Australia Bank and Daikin Industries in Japan. The awards ceremony will be held in Chicago on Tuesday, 13 September.
