TAEN is collaborating with AARP, the US not for profit organisation, the American Association of Rertired Persons, to promote the 2014 AARP Best Employers International Award in the UK.

The Award recognises employers from around the world that have demonstrated innovative efforts to address issues relevant to an ageing workforce and create a mutually beneficial environment that values the potential of younger and older workers alike.

Eligibility
While it is an international award, entries are called for from all employers whether or not they have international operations. The Award is open to employers in the public, private and voluntary sectors headquartered outside the US, as well as foreign-based subsidiaries and operations of US-based companies.

Why are TAEN promoting the Award?
AARP, TAEN and their international partners want to encourage good management of older workers in the global market place. Because they want people to remain active, healthy and economically independent, they believe sharing examples of good practices is helpful.

How does the ageing workforce affect your organisation?
The ageing workforce is very likely to affect your organisation. Many people are already working beyond traditional retirement ages. Factors such as longer life expectancy and the shrinking value of pensions will encourage this trend.

What kinds of changes to workplaces and jobs might this imply?
In this changing and complex world of work, strategic and well planned initiatives will assume more importance.

What would you gain by applying?
Whether or not your organisation has an existing programme of response to workforce ageing, applying will give you valuable insights and enable you to compare your initiatives with those of others worldwide. If you win an award you may mention The AARP Best Employers International Award in your branding. Winners will benefit from media and new business contacts and be featured in a special report in The Economist.

Assessment
The assessment considers a number of factors including: recruitment practices, workplace culture, lifelong learning and training opportunities, support for career development, alternative and flexible work options, and workplace design. The selection of winners is informed by recommendations from a panel of international expert judges.

Previous Winners
The previous UK winners are Marks and Spencer, the Co-operative Group, BT, Centrica, Domestic and General, Agewell-Sandwell Primary Care Trust, and the University of Central Lancashire. Click here for summaries of the best practices of all the international winners.

The application procedure
The deadline for submission of online applications is 25 April 2014.

Further information and the link to the electronic application form are available here.

Further information can be found about the awards and an information webinar by clicking here.