Derry City and Strabane District Council has formally signed the Age-friendly Employer Pledge, demonstrating its commitment to supporting the recruitment, retention and development of employees aged 50 and over.

The Age-friendly Employer Pledge is a free UK-wide programme led by the Centre for Ageing Better, designed to help employers create age-inclusive workplaces where older workers can thrive.

Mayor of Derry and Strabane, Councillor Grace Uí Niallais, said: "I’m delighted that Council has signed the pledge, further strengthening our commitment to creating an inclusive and supportive workplace for employees of all ages. Older workers bring a wealth of knowledge, experience and skills that are invaluable to organisations and communities alike.

"As a Council we are proud to lead by example and demonstrate the positive role employers can play in supporting people to remain in and progress within the workforce at every stage of their career. By becoming an Age-friendly Employer, we are sending a clear message that we value the contribution of older workers and are committed to creating opportunities where everyone can succeed."

The Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council, Grace Ui Niallais pictured at the launch of the DCSDC Age-Friendly Employer Pledge at the Guildhall on Tuesday morning. Included are John Kelpie, Chief Executive Officer, DCSDC, Brenda Bradley, Human Resources Officer, DCSDC and Pauline O'Neill, Age Friendly Co-Ordinator, DCSDC. The Strategy and Action Plan strives to ensure that partners work together to address the key actions to enable citizens and an ageing population continue to live an active and fulfilling life. (Photos: Jim McCafferty Photography)

placeholder image — The Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council, Grace Ui Niallais pictured at the launch of the DCSDC Age-Friendly Employer Pledge at the Guildhall on Tuesday morning. Included are John Kelpie, Chief Executive Officer, DCSDC, Brenda Bradley, Human Resources Officer, DCSDC and Pauline O'Neill, Age Friendly Co-Ordinator, DCSDC. The Strategy and Action Plan strives to ensure that partners work together to address the key actions to enable citizens and an ageing population continue to live an active and fulfilling life. (Photos: Jim McCafferty Photography)

The Council will also use its position as a community leader to encourage local businesses and organisations across the City and District to consider signing the Age-friendly Employer Pledge and adopting age-inclusive employment practices of their own.

Council's Older Persons Officer, Pauline O'Neill, said the pledge complements ongoing work to make the district a better place for the older community.

"This is a very positive step forward and aligns strongly with our wider Age-friendly work across the Council area. Employment plays an important role in supporting wellbeing and social connection, and it’s vital that older people feel valued and supported in the workplace.

"By signing the pledge, Council is helping to raise awareness of the benefits of age-inclusive employment among other employers throughout the district. We look forward to working with colleagues and partners to promote the pledge and share the many advantages that come from embracing a multigenerational workforce,” she said.

As part of the programme, the Council will participate in a review process after six months, including a discussion with the Employer Pledge team and the submission of a progress report. This will provide an opportunity to reflect on achievements to date and identify further actions to support older workers within the organisation.