A recent study by the University of Birmingham claims that ageism and discrimination are still a problem in the United Kingdom because, according to one of the researchers, employers have "misconceptions" about older workers.

Tony Maltby of the university's Institute of Applied Social Studies says that bosses still discriminate against older workers for a variety of reasons, including health and training issues. "Despite the great strides being made, our research shows that ageism still exists at work-even though the experience and many other qualities of the over 50s often makes them better employees," Maltby said. "Older workers are missing out on employment opportunities and employers are losing out on this valuable resource, simply because of misconceptions about this age group."

Maltby trained a group of researchers over age 50 to design, develop and implement the project in order to help employers find out what works for older employees. The research, Maltby explained, was "designed to help dispel the myths surrounding older workers and encourage employers to work alongside this group to everyone's advantage."

One of the outcomes of the project was a What Works list of practical guidelines that will be circulated to employers and other agencies, including job centres.