Scotland and Wales lead in confidence to work into later life, research finds

The research showed 83% of workers in Scotland were confident they could keep going in their jobs at age 60, with the North East and North West at 82%. 

The West Midlands was lowest at 74%. 

At age 70, Wales was highest at 55% while the East Midlands was lowest at 43%.

London workers were most confident about retiring when they want to, ranking sixth for working at 60 and eighth for working at 70. 

London also ranked top for overall job satisfaction at 77%, job flexibility at 82%, pay at 69%, progression at 66%, and workplace pensions at 64%. 

The North West came second overall, with the South West in third.

Thomson said: “Over 50s are not a homogeneous group. Their experiences of work as they age are shaped by a huge range of factors throughout their lives, one of which is their local economy and job market. 

“Policies to improve people’s access to good work must recognise this fact or risk reinforcing existing inequalities. 

“We need to make sure people have opportunities at work no matter their age or where they live.”

Thomson added: “That needs to adapt throughout life, and could involve learning new skills, help with a health condition, balancing being a carer, better flexible work, or the opportunity to shift careers entirely.”