Is the ageing of the population of rural Shropshire having an impact on businesses in this region of England?

Following the introduction of the Age discrimination legislation in October 2006, an investigation was carried out to assess how the accelerated ageing of the rural population in Shropshire is affecting small businesses in the region.

Much of Shropshire falls within the Rural Regeneration Zone, ear marked by Advantage West Midlands for assistance due to its ‘vulnerable’ level of economic prosperity relative to the rest of the region.

There is much evidence to suggest that the ageing of the UK’s population is happening at a faster rate in rural areas due to additional external influences:  influx of retirees and outflow of young working age group exacerbated in Shropshire by the fact that there are few Higher Education establishments in the county.

Is the changing demographics having any impact on Small businesses in the area?

A survey of over 100 small businesses in the region was conducted , both land based and non land based to try to ascertain whether firms are being affected in terms of recruitment and skills availability. 

This research hoped to discover whether these firms have noticed any difference in the pool of available labour, and if so later research will be done into the methods have they have used to address the issues that have arisen.

Initial findings suggest a very positive attitude towards older employees (defined as over 50 years of age) by employers, but little awareness of the legislation and  hence minimal changes to recruitment procedures.

The employment of staff over retirement age varies between employers and this will be analysed further, as it is seen as a likely measure to deal with the changing demographics.