New rules outlaw age discrimination

by Kate Ramsden

New laws which came into force on 1 October will outlaw discrimination by employers on the grounds of age.

The Employment Equality (Age) Regulations 2006 make it illegal for employers to discriminate against employees, trainees or job seekers because of age and ensure that all workers, regardless of age, have the same rights to training and promotion.

What this means for you

You can no longer be forced to retire before 65 unless your employer can justify this because of the needs of the job. You will have the right to request to work beyond your 65th birthday and your employer must consider this.

You'll get at least 6 months notice of your retirement date so that you can plan better and be sure it is not being used as a cover up for unfair dismissal.

The upper limit for unfair dismissal and redundancy has been removed and there are now no age limits for statutory sick pay, maternity, paternity and adoption pay.

However benefits can continue where they depend on length of service of 5 years or less and reward loyalty and experience.

The regulations don't affect the age at which you can claim your pension and there are exemptions for many age-based rules in occupational pension schemes.

For more information go to www.agepositive.gov.uk

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