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Removal of default retirement age leads to increase in absence levels, research finds

Since the removal of DRA (default retirement age) over a quarter of employers have seen an increase in absence rates or age related health conditions, highlighting the potential risk of having an older workforce, research from Group Risk Development (Grid) has revealed.

Its Group risk employer research study 2012 found one third (33%) of employers have seen the average age of their workforce increase over the past year.

However, in the report of over 500 UK employers, an 'ageless' workforce does appear to have benefits. A quarter stated the removal of DRA has enabled them to retain knowledge and experience within their company and a further 17% felt it has increased the diversity in their workplace.

The report also showed 59% felt the removal of the DRA meant they were more likely to recruit employees aged 50 and over and 22% said older workers are more loyal workers.

Katharine Moxham, spokesperson for Grid, said: "Older employees can bring a wealth of experience, confidence and mentoring skills to a business so it's great to see the average age of the workforce increasing.

"However, as our survey demonstrates, an increase in absence rates and age-related health conditions can present a challenge to employers which can then have a knock-on effect to benefit provision.”