Rochdale initiative targets joblessness among over 50s

A social enterprise based in Rochdale is set to address one of society’s most pressing issues – unemployment among older men.

The rising tide of long-term joblessness in the over 50s has led to what some describe as a “lost generation” of potential workers, who are also grappling with declining wellbeing, worsening health, and a growing sense of alienation.

However, there is hope on the horizon. Upturn, a programme that has already transformed the lives of marginalised groups, is now extending its reach to help older adults.

Last week saw the release of their second-year report on a Reaching Communities funded programme, highlighting the impact they’ve made. The report reveals that 259 of Rochdale’s most hard-to-reach individuals have benefited from life coaching, employment training, and tailored mentoring.

Among the achievements:

• 251 participants reported increased self-esteem
• 85 experienced improved mental health
• 54 pursued further education or vocational training
• 175 successfully secured employment

Despite these impressive outcomes, Upturn is not resting on its laurels. The organisation is now setting its sights on even more challenging demographics, including care leavers, ex-prisoners, and the over 50s.

Maria Williams, HR director for Upturn, said: “The secret of our success has been to bring hope to people, rather than wait for them to access it. It is also about building trust and giving people the confidence to take control of their lives. When we first engage with them, they are often disillusioned, disadvantaged, and disengaged.”
 

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The comprehensive support package includes career path development, benefits and debt advice, signposting to volunteering and work placement opportunities, and the use of peer mentors – people who have navigated similar challenges – as inspirational ambassadors.

One such success story is John (not his real name), who faced significant personal barriers, including illiteracy. After moving out to care for his terminally ill mother, John believed he had no future in employment and suffered from low self-esteem.

John is now training to become a plasterer, has seen a significant improvement in his mental health, and is receiving help from his employer to manage debt and ensure his bills are paid.

Looking ahead, Upturn plans to build a network of supportive businesses, organise debt advice sessions, and tap into expert resources to help people start new ventures.

With the recent acquisition of a camper van, dubbed "Hope on Wheels," the organisation is poised to bring its services directly to the community, visiting coffee mornings and other local hubs.

“There are 200,000 over 50s who are currently unemployed, with over 37% out of work for more than a year,” Maria concluded. “We recognise that many in this group face significant and complex challenges, including poor access to mental health services, mounting debt, a benefits system that fails to incentivise, physical health concerns, and a sense that they are no longer valued.

"We aim to change that and urge businesses, local authorities, statutory organisations, and society at large to help us bring work and hope to this treasured generation.”

For employment opportunities or to find workers for your vacancies, visit:www.upturn.org.uk