PRIME Initiative

Over 50s considering self-employment, or wanting to start their own business, can come along to PRIME’s Olderpreneur Roadshow which kicks off in Bristol on 23 September.

Between the ages of 50 and 65 almost 1 in 3 people are without work and almost 60% have no pension, other than the state pension to look forward to.

“With the looming pensions crisis the shrinking numbers of people in younger age groups paying for welfare and health services and the need to prevent older people being plunged into poverty in their later years, it’s never been more important to provide opportunities for over 50’s who want to work. Yet over three-quarters of a million 50+ in the UK who want to work still face age discrimination in the job market” says Laurie South, Chief Executive of PRIME.

PRIME’s Olderpreneur Roadshow is part of a practical package of support the charity offers over 50s including a Business Club, Olderpreneur Loans Scheme and Mentoring.

At the FREE roadshow anyone over 50 who wants to find out whether self-employment or setting up their own business might be for them, can come along. They will hear from local ‘olderpreneurs’ about their experiences, and inspirational business speaker Tom Edge author of Age Is No Barrier. They will also be able to quiz local business support organisations and network with other 50s wanting to start up on their own.

After Bristol, the roadshow will be moving onto Leeds on the 14th October, Birmingham on the 4th November, and Manchester on 9th December. A London date is soon to be confirmed.

“The over 50s are an increasingly important part of our economy. Yet in many cases their energy, creativity, experience and sheer ingenuity is being unfairly discarded. At least 3.5 million 50 to 65-year-olds have no work. Over 50s who are out of work for six months after being made redundant only stand a one in ten chance of ever having the chance to be an employee again”, says Laurie.

“The potential for economic growth partly driven by the over 50s could be a big factor in the success of the UK’s businesses and in our future. However, they need better targeted support and guidance. Many have care responsibilities. A significant number have a health condition or a disability. Nevertheless, flexible working and a good work-life balance can be key to the over 50s remaining in work, which is why self-employment or setting up their own business is such a good option”, says Laurie.

PRIME’s founder Prince Charles says. “The experience and skills which people build up over a lifetime are an invaluable resource”, he says. “It is madness for society not to make use of this.”

PRIME is able to offer the roadshow programme free to people over 50 thanks to the generous support of its key corporate sponsor Bank of America.