The number of retired Britons seeking employment has surged dramatically, with some cities experiencing an increase of up to 900% in job searches among UK retirees.
As the cost of living crisis continues to put financial strain on older people, many UK retirees are reconsidering retirement and looking for ways to supplement their income.
According to GB News, rising expenses, reduced eligibility for certain benefits, and concerns about long-term financial stability are pushing more pensioners back into the workforce.
In response, financial experts are urging retirees to explore all available support, including Attendance Allowance, a key government benefit that could provide extra income for those struggling with daily living costs.
A Sharp Rise in Retirees Looking for Work
Recent research by Almond Financial reveals that job searches among retirees have increased by 16% over the past year. However, in certain cities, the figures are far more dramatic. Oxford has seen the highest increase, with a 900% rise in job searches by pensioners.
Plymouth follows closely at 500%, while Swindon has recorded a 300% surge, and Eastbourne and West Bromwich have seen increases of 275% and 150%, respectively. Financial pressures appear to be a key factor driving this shift.
Cities experiencing the highest surge in pensioners seeking employment also tend to have higher living costs, with Oxford ranking as the UK’s third most expensive city for basic expenses, where a single person’s monthly costs, excluding rent, are estimated at £893.90.
However, not all areas are seeing this trend. UK retirees in Milton Keynes have recorded a 38% decrease in job searches between 2023 and 2024, making it the largest decline in pensioner job searches nationwide.
Attendance Allowance: An Underutilised Financial Support
Experts are encouraging pensioners to check their eligibility for Attendance Allowance, a government-provided financial aid designed for people over state pension age (66) who require assistance due to illness or disability. The benefit currently offers £72.65 (lower rate) or £108.55 (higher rate) per week, translating to up to £5,644.60 per year.
From April 2024, the lower rate will rise to £73.90, while the higher rate will increase to £110.40 per week, reflecting a 1.7% adjustment for inflation. This support is non-means tested, meaning it is available regardless of income or savings, and can be used for daily expenses, medical costs, or other necessities.
Who Qualifies for Attendance Allowance?
The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) provides this benefit to UK retirees who require assistance with daily personal tasks such as dressing, eating, bathing, or ensuring personal safety.
While mobility-related support is not included, the aid is available for people with a range of conditions, including:
- Arthritis – 469,902 claimants
- Dementia – 170,225
- Heart disease – 120,914
- Respiratory conditions – 100,530
- Diseases of the muscles, bones, or joints – 83,594
- Cerebrovascular disease – 73,475
- Back pain – 72,553
- Visual disorders and diseases – 50,107
- Parkinson’s disease – 43,367
- Neurological conditions – 34,604
To qualify, UK retirees must have required assistance for at least six months, unless they are terminally ill, in which case support is expedited.
