Retirement age

A. The law on compulsory retirement has changed. Employees can no longer be forced to retire at 65 or any other age.

Whatever you decide to do at this stage of your working career, it is sensible to contact your pension scheme provider to see how your decision might affect your pension.

If you’re thinking about possible changes to your working pattern, it’s a good idea to initiate an early discussion with your employer to talk through the options.

Bear in mind that big changes to the law on making flexible working requests are coming soon. These might help you frame your discussions.

From 30 June 2014, all employees with at least 26 weeks’ service can request flexible working. You no longer need to be a carer to make this kind of request (see page 25).

Many employers — especially in unionised workplaces — already operate flexible working procedures directed at employees who are approaching retirement.

You might be able to agree, for example, to reduce your hours, downscale your responsibilities, take a sabbatical break, work part-time, combine studying and work and so on.

Your employer should consider your proposal s in a fair and objective way throughout any discussion about your future plans.

Speak to your rep about the best way of making your request.