TAEN (The Age and Employment Network) and US-based AARP have launched a UK version of a tool to help employers assess their fitness for an ageing workforce.

Based on a model produced by AARP (American Association of Retired Persons), which has been used by some 2,000 US employers since its launch in 2008, the Workforce Assessment Tool enables HR managers to assess how an ageing workforce will affect their workplace, and how to attract and retain talent from all age groups.

Chris Ball, chief executive of TAEN, says: “This tool will help employers relate their workplace policies and practices to salient issues facing organisations and the economy, including demographic change, workforce ageing and shrinkage, and risks arising from skills shortages.

“Following the success of the AARP’s Workforce Assessment Tool in the US, we hope that UK employers will find the tool equally useful in developing their own age management strategies.”

Deborah Russell, director of workforce issues at AARP, adds: “TAEN fully recognises the value of workforce planning and the impact it will have on recruiting and managing an age-diverse workforce. AARP encourages UK employers follow the lead of their US counterparts and take advantage of this free and confidential tool.”

Employers and HR managers are urged to complete the 30 minute online questionnaire which covers topics such as company demographics, knowledge retention, financial and health benefits, flexible working options, the physical work environment, training and development opportunities and recruitment policies.

Each user receives a confidential and customised report suggesting measures they could take to create an age-friendly workplace.

Employers and stakeholders can set up accounts and access the free service at www.aarpworkforceassessment.org/uk