Isle of Wight East Conservative MP, Joe Robertson, has been appointed – alongside broadcasters Penny Lancaster and Angela Rippon, and wellbeing entrepreneur Liz Earle MBE – to the “Beyond Midlife Commission”, set up by the Centre for Social Justice (CSJ) think tank.
The commissioners, including Mr Robertson, have been tasked with finding solutions to the growing number of people over-50 now out of work.
Retaining and maximising the workforce in middle age
Working alongside 1,000 small charities all over the country, it will look at retaining and maximising the workforce in middle age.
The CSJ – which was influential in shaping welfare reforms 15 years ago – says that too many people over 50 are being “written off” and aims to address what it calls a, “midlife crisis in our economy”.
The East Wight MP was appointed for his growing profile in health and welfare policy in Westminster.
Robertson: A midlife crisis in our economy
Mr Robertson said:
“Too many over-50s are being written off – leading to a midlife crisis in our economy. Over 2 million 50 to 64-year-olds are now on out-of-work benefits – the highest level on record.
“That’s why I am pleased to have joined the Beyond Midlife Commission in developing practical, deliverable solutions that help people stay in, or return to, fulfilling work and unlock growth across the country.
“Older workers bring decades of skills, insight and experience, and a rise in employment could generate billions in tax revenue and savings.
“The Isle of Wight perfectly demonstrates the realities of an ageing population. I am urging members of the public and all the amazing Isle of Wight small charities and organisations to engage with the Commission to demonstrate how we can work together to unlock their untapped potential.”
The Commission aims to bring together experience from across business, politics, and the public and third sectors, and will include landmark polling and focus groups.
News shared by the office of Joe Robertson, in their own words. Ed
