News
Government launches new ‘Midlife MOT’ website to help older people with financial planning
The Department of Work and Pensions (DWP) says the new website will help older workers with financial planning, health guidance, and to assess what their skills mean for their careers and futures.
The free Midlife MOT website encourages people to review their skills and brings together services such as a jobseeker toolkit and charity resources. The DWP said it will allow people to identify job opportunities across the UK as well as better preparing them for later life and their retirement.
The website includes links to key organisations and charities, including the NHS, Mind, MoneyHelper, Citizens Advice and the DWP’s find a job portal.
MoneyHelper has created a financial tool which will provide a personalised report to help people understand what to prioritise to improve their financial position, from now through to retirement.
Guy Opperman MP, minister for employment, said: “We are all living longer and planning for later life is essential but knowing where to start can be daunting. Our digital Midlife MOT is open to everyone and easy to access, and will give people the tools to make informed decisions – on their personal finances, their health and on their careers. I would encourage older people in particular to invest the time to see exactly what it can do for them.”
‘Age is no barrier to learning’
Andy Briggs, CEO of the Phoenix Group and older workers champion for the Government, said: “The introduction of an enhanced digital MOT, that’s open to all, is welcome news and, with a focus on work, wealth and wellbeing, it will be an essential tool in helping people make the most of their longer lives. So much so, that Phoenix Group has piloted its own version of the midlife MOT which will be rolled out to colleagues in the coming months.
“The desire to stay in meaningful work for longer is already important to many people. More experienced, older workers offer a wealth of knowledge but are often written-off or overlooked for no good reason. Age is no barrier to learning and I encourage businesses to invest for all, to enjoy the benefits of greater retention and more skilled employees.”
The website launch comes as Age UK warns that many over 50s are struggling financially, with energy bills a particular area of concern.
