SUPPORT for older workers is being offered by councils in Worcestershire.

Malvern Hills and Wychavon District Councils are providing free support for employers looking to recruit and retain older workers.

Up to 40 employers will be able to take advantage of the help as part of the councils’ Upskilling Project, which received £283,000 from the Government’s UK Community Renewal Fund.

Councillor Mark Ward, executive board member for Economic Growth and Tourism on Wychavon District Council, said: “I know how important it is for employers to recruit and retain older workers, so I would encourage them to take advantage of these free resources while they can.”

Helen Astill, director of consultancy Cherington HR, will provide one-to-one support for businesses looking to introduce age-friendly working practices.

She said: “Recruiting and retaining older workers is more important than ever before. I’m pleased to be working alongside Malvern Hills and Wychavon to help local businesses adopt their own age-friendly practices.”

Employers who take advantage of the support on offer will receive a free resource pack, and access to an online resource hub, to help them develop an action plan and make changes in their workplace.

Businesses will also be offered one-to-one meetings to provide additional support in implementing age-friendly policies.

Morgan Motors was one of the first businesses to receive the support.

The company’s HR manager and wellbeing champion, Sarah Baldwin, said: “The free support in adopting age-friendly policies has been invaluable in aligning our policies with best practice, and reinforced our on-going commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion in the workplace.”