Are you past landing a job at 55? The reality of ageism despite labour shortages
From reporter Amanda Cropp:
For older job-seekers like Christine Black, the low unemployment rate has improved her odds of getting an interview.
The 61-year-old accountant recently got shortlisted for a call centre job, an improvement on five years ago when she applied for the same position and didn’t get a look in.
Being asked if you have any health issues or told you are over-qualified, (which she was for the call centre position), can be shorthand for “you’re too old,” and Black says ageism is still a problem.
“Somebody said to me ‘your life experience exceeds our expectations’ ... I know a lot of under-employed women between 50 and 65.”
A third of the workforce is over the age of 55, and the proportion working past retirement age has risen steadily.
In 2008, 15% of those aged 65-plus were employed, compared with just over 25% in 2022.
According to Stats NZ forecasts, by 2043 the labour force will have up to 386,000 people aged 65-plus, almost double the number in 2020.
The Human Rights Act prohibits discrimination on the basis of age, and unless it is a genuine qualification for a job – such as bar work – it can be unlawful for an employer to ask your age in a job interview.
Read the full story here.
Christmas Cottage open home..
Hello all you Christmas lovers out there!
This annual event is not to be missed!
Our Beckenham cottage has been decorated tip to toe in the spirit of Christmas.
All funds raised go to the children’s charity “Good night sleep tight”.
Just $5.00 for adults, children are free.
We are open this weekend Sat 7th and Sun 8th from 10am - 4pm.
Round up your friends and neighbours and come along to this much talked about event!
ChCh South Community Gardens Summer Market Day - this Saturday 7th Dec - 10-1pm 188 Strockland Street
All welcome to check out some interesting plants - we need to clear our stocks - all going for a nice community price..
Sausage sizzle, cool cordials, plants , preserves, produce
Contact: info@cscommunitygardens.net.nz
2024 ChCh Sth Community Gardens Summer Newsletter (2).pdf Download View
Poll: Do you think banning gang patches is reasonable?
With the government cracking down on gangs, it is now illegal for gang members to display their insignia in public places whether through clothing or their property.
This means arrests can be made if these patches are worn in places like restaurants, shops, on public transport or ferries, and on airplanes. Arrests were made recently at a funeral.
Do you think this ban is reasonable?
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75.7% Yes
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22.9% No
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1.4% Other - I'll share below
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