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Having spent many years with the careers service and working in employment support, Kerry says that she frequently heard examples of ageism from the people that she was supporting.
“To be honest, I probably internalised all these negative, ageist experiences. So much so that when I saw my current post advertised, I had to persuade myself to follow my own advice to jobseekers - don’t rule yourself out before you’ve even applied! Just do it!
“Even after I’d secured an interview, I still doubted my capability, asking the interviewer why they were considering me! They replied, ‘because you are the most competent!’
“Archaeology is definitely a less ageist career than many, in my experience”, says Kerry.
“In archaeology you can meet apprentices who are in their 50s. You are valued for the body of knowledge that you represent. In fact, the profession almost has an opposite challenge in identifying the succession for all this expertise.
"[My current role is] a far better fit for my personality than being dressed in a suit as a career's advisor. I enjoy being allowed to be myself in this role, and I think that’s much better for your mental health too. I feel like I’m treated like a person, not a unit of production."
Changing my career direction at 60 has been a huge learning curve, but over the last 9 years, I’ve learnt an enormous amount.”
Kerry has received a state pension since she was 66 and is now 69. She works 37 hours per week but is considering reducing her hours as she approaches 70.
“Working from home can be invaluable for older people. The physical strain of a full-time job can be tough, and it allows me to manage my caring responsibilities. Especially as I’m slower physically, it takes me longer to do things now I’m older. I’m fortunate that my workplace is also very flexible, which is precious to me.
“I’m working beyond state pension age for lots of reasons. I think I’m afraid of not having something regular to do! But also, I really enjoy the camaraderie and friendships with colleagues, which I'd be loathe to lose.
“The financial aspect of work is very important to me too. There are times in my life when I’ve been poor, working on low-income government projects, which offered little pension.
“The extra income now means a better quality of life; I don’t want to live hand to mouth if I can help it. It’s not about lots of belongings but it allows for some nicer things in life, like being able to plan a trip to Scotland.
“It’s up to us to say what support and flexibility we need as older people [at work], because it may be hard for younger colleagues to appreciate otherwise.”
