Views & commentary

Age-inclusivity at Phoenix Group

Views & commentary

Age-inclusivity at Phoenix Group

As a purpose-led organisation we’re passionate about creating a workplace that values experience, embraces diversity, and champions the unique strengths each individual brings to the table.

Person Sat At Their Desk Looking At Their Smartphone Portrait (1)

So far during 2023 we’ve created over 6,700 training opportunities for colleagues and hosted over 3,000 workshops, including training in areas such as menopause, retirement conversations and mid-career MOTs.

And we worked with the DWP to hold a job fair in our Edinburgh office dedicated to over-50 job seekers. This was a huge success and almost 30% of attendees achieved interviews or roles as a direct result.

Age-inclusive recruitment

At Phoenix Group we want to create an environment where everyone can thrive and as part of our age inclusive culture we have policies such as menopause support, ten days paid carer’s leave and we’ve removed language from job descriptions that could deter older workers from applying for roles.

We’ve also worked with the Centre for Ageing better on a recruitment pilot looking at differing approaches to effective age friendly recruitment, and we were one of the first organisations to sign their Age-friendly Employer Pledge in 2022.

And we offer a glide path to retirement for our colleagues approaching retirement which helps them to reduce their hours as they approach retirement, without a reduction in pay.

Our Group CEO, Andy Briggs, is the UK government's Business Champion for Older Workers and Chair of the Business in the Community’s ‘Age at Work’ leadership team. This team supports businesses to recruit and retrain older workers by promoting the benefits of older workers to employers.

Asha’s story

Asha Patel
Asha Patel, Internal Service Manager, Phoenix Group

Asha Patel decided to return to work in 2016 after a decade of looking after her young daughters. And a chance conversation with another parent in the playground led her to applying to work at Phoenix Group.

Despite initially starting the role full-time, Asha wanted to reduce her hours to support her work-life balance and now works a four-day week.

“It was the best thing for me and my wellbeing. It meant I could pursue a career and also enjoy a quality weekend. Flexible working wasn’t so much of a thing at Phoenix Group then and I felt super lucky and I often tell colleagues it is always good to ask” 

Since working at Phoenix Group, Asha has become an advocate for older professionals returning to work after a career break. She recognises the unique strengths they bring - work ethic, experience, transferable skills, and a keen willingness to learn and adapt.

“It’s a very multigenerational workplace where there are talented people from all backgrounds, and each one is able to bring their whole self to work. The buzz is about being around a safe environment where harmony exists and respect can be earned”

Working mostly from home with occasional visits to the office and monthly travel to Edinburgh, Asha values Phoenix Group's trust in her flexibility.

“Phoenix Group made me feel like I was still a valuable employee. That has allowed me to grow.”

Our inclusive environment, emphasis on wellbeing, and commitment to individual growth have all helped Asha feel supported in her return to work.

We’re proud to be sponsoring the workingwise.co.uk National Older Workers Week which runs from 20th to 24th November 2023.