This ILC-UK discussion paper considers the challenge presented to workplace relations and employment rights by the extending working lives agenda.

There appears to be a sense of inevitability from pensions and human resources professionals about the need to work longer. In this paper, Dr Susan Sayce of the University of East Anglia draws upon contributions from expert speakers at a seminar on the workplace pensions arena to generate discussion on a range of issues that impact on older people in the workplace.

The paper argues that both employers and trade unions must be involved in addressing how working longer will impact on employment rights and workplace relations. Dealing with issues around pensions reform, employee retention and flexible working will require clear communication about the choices available to individuals.

Author: Dr Susan Sayce, Lecturer in Human Resource Management, University of East Anglia.