Council Signs Age-Friendly Employer Pledge

Fermanagh and Omagh District Council has proudly signed the Age-Friendly Employer Pledge, a UK-wide initiative, led by the Centre for Ageing Better, aimed at improving the recruitment, retention, and development of older workers. By signing the pledge, the Council reaffirms its commitment to building an inclusive and supportive workplace for employees of all ages.

The pledge comes at a crucial time. A recent survey by the Centre for Ageing Better highlights the widespread presence of ageism in the workplace, with over one in five (21%) UK adults aged 50 and over reporting regular experiences of age-related bias since turning 50. With an ageing population and growing skills gaps in many sectors, organisations have a vital role to play in championing age diversity.

By joining the Age-Friendly Employer Pledge, Fermanagh and Omagh District Council commits to taking meaningful action each year to enhance how it recruits, supports, and retains older employees.

This pledge complements the Council’s broader efforts to promote equality, diversity, and wellbeing in the workplace. Through initiatives that support access to services and encourage healthy, active lifestyles, the Council continues to ensure its workforce is valued, supported, and empowered to deliver high-quality services to the local community.

Chair of Fermanagh and Omagh District Council, Councillor John McClaughry, welcomed the commitment, stating,
“We value the knowledge, experience and dedication of our older employees and are committed to creating a workplace where people of all ages feel respected and supported. This pledge reinforces our focus on inclusion and helps us build a stronger, more diverse workforce for the future.”