The employment rate of over-50s and those over State Pension Age continues to hold up well, but regional variations remain startling accoridng to the TAEN Spring 2006 Newsletter. www.taen.org.uk
Latest data (April 2006) shows that almost half the net increase in the UK workforce in the last 12 months has been among people over the State Pension Age. This is dominated by women under 64 who appear to have decided not to wait for their State Pension Age to start rising to 65 in 2010.
The employment rate of over-50's in the North East is 63% and in Wales 64% compared to 75% in Southern and Eastern England. In inner London, it is 64% compared to 73% in outer London. 24% of men over 50 in the North East are on incapacity benefit, compared to 8% in the South East.
We have noted previously a need to clarify the Governments ambition of an 80% employment rate. It is complicated by the rise in women's pension age from 60 to 65 between 2010 and 2020 and the calculation methodology. The Office for National Statisitics forecasts in Labour Market Trends (January 2006) that the employment rate will rise only 2% points by 2020, to 76% rather than 80%.
The Equalities Review Interim Report from Trevor Phillips (March 2006) lamented the state of data and analyisis on equal opportunity toics. We commend as a model for those working on disability, race and other inequalities. The Older Workers Statistical Information Booklet , published twice a year since 1999. It is an excellent and ever-improving resource. | 
