Around 20% of over 50s are seriously contemplating a career change to fulfil a lifetime job ambition, according to research by Learndirect Careers Advice.

The survey found that more than a quarter say they want more job satisfaction in their next career, and that means doing something “more worthwhile”. It found 61% want the chance to acquire new skills.

The research found that construction, education and the creative arts were the most sought-after job areas among those questioned, followed by sport, leisure and the media.

The research comes as figures show that while some do pursue their dream career out of choice, more than 1,000 people a month who are in their 50s and 60s are losing their jobs.

The Employment Tribunals Service has dealt with more than 2,000 ageism cases since the law came into force in 2006.

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