The number of jobless individuals aged over 50 in Peterborough has decreased by 11 percent, according to data from the Department of Work and Pensions. The latest figures indicate that the unemployment rate for this age group fell to 1,050 last month, a reduction of 135 people compared to the same period last year.
George Bateman, the Employer and Partnership Manager at Peterborough Jobcentre, expressed satisfaction with these results. “We are delighted by the figures,” he stated. “It is a result of many months of focused work to help people in this age range get back into the workplace.”
Initiatives to Support Older Job Seekers
In recent months, the Peterborough Jobcentre has implemented various initiatives aimed at assisting older job seekers. This includes the hosting of 50 plus MOT sessions, designed to address challenges that may impede their job search. These sessions focus on a range of topics, including enhancing earnings potential, retirement planning, job-related support, and financial guidance.
Mr. Bateman elaborated on the goals of these initiatives. “We are expanding our specialist support for those aged 50 and over while deepening our partnerships with employers across the area,” he explained. “These initiatives will help us move people into work more quickly, with better job matches and a wider range of opportunities across multiple sectors.”
Looking Ahead to 2026
The year 2026 is anticipated to be pivotal for the Peterborough Jobcentre. Mr. Bateman highlighted plans to strengthen relationships with local businesses, aiming to facilitate even more job placements. “We will be launching an in-person jobs fair in February, alongside ongoing collaboration with employers—many of whom will be recruiting directly through our Jobcentre,” he noted.
Current job opportunities are plentiful, with hundreds of vacancies listed on the Find a Job – GOV.UK website, spanning various sectors from hospitality to healthcare. The Jobcentre remains committed to helping individuals navigate the job market and secure fulfilling, sustainable employment.
With these efforts, the Jobcentre aims not only to reduce unemployment among older individuals but also to enhance their overall well-being and financial stability as they transition into new careers.
