The experience of an abrupt and often premature departure from work can leave individuals feeling disorientated and disappointed, and can prevent their valuable economic potential from being tapped. This report explores the possibilities of more flexible forms of work that bridge the gap between a steady career job and retirement. It examines such jobs in the wider context of the types of transitions that are being made by people leaving work early. Specifically, it: examines characteristics and experiences of those leaving permanent jobs between age 50 and retirement age; looks at factors associated with a move to temporary, part-time or self-employment; and considers the qualities of these alternative forms of work. The report makes recommendations for future retirement policy. It is aimed at policy makers, academics and practitioners who have an interest in employment and retirement issues.
Author Biography
Dr Stephen Lissenburgh is Principal Research Fellow and Head of the Employment Group at the Policy Studies Institute. Deborah Smeaton is Research Fellow, also at the Policy Studies Institute.
Reviews
"... readable and well-presented research findings of interest to students and policy-makers concerned with work-retirement transitions in the United Kingdom." Ageing & Society
