THE ageing population is an opportunity, rather than a threat, for the South East job market, according to the CBI, as it can help tackle the widespread skills shortage across the region.

Age discrimination legislation will be brought in October 2006 that stipulates that no company can discriminate against age in the workforce.

Nigel Bourne, the CBI’s South East regional director, said: “The combination of an ageing population and acknowledged national skill shortages means that employers will be forced to re-evaluate their HR policies and incorporate the older workforce into their long-term employment practices.

“Autumn 2006 may seem a long time away, but it is essential that companies prepare now for the new legislation, and wake up to the commercial advantages offered by employing an ageing workforce.”

The CBI has organised ‘Prospering With An Ageing Workforce’, a briefing for senior executives which aims to provide essential advice and information on how to comply with the new legislation.

The event is being run in collaboration with leading South East law firm Cripps Harries Hall and the Centre for Research into the Older Workforce at the University of Surrey on Thursday, April 22.

Gavin Tyler, a partner in Cripps Harries Hall’s employment department, who will chair the seminar, said: “The introduction of the age discrimination legislation will have the biggest impact on the workplace since the Sex Discrimination Act 1975 and it is essential that businesses start to formulate their strategies for compliance now.”