A new national day for older people is focussing on the skills that many have to offer and the huge contribution they make to society.

The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) claims that the first Generation Xperience UK Older People’s Day, coinciding with UN International Day of Older People, will tackle outdated stereotypes and affirm a positive view of later life by "turning a spotlight on experience".

Britain has an estimated 20 million people over the age of 50 and, as the UK population continues to age, it becomes more important to ensure that they are able to full contribute to society, the economy and the country as a whole, combating the problem of age discrimination.

Taking place on Monday October 1st, Generation Xperience UK Older People’s Day is organised by the DWP in partnership with other government agencies, the Financial Services Authority (FSA), Help the Aged, the Beth Johnson Foundation, Plus Pilots, B&Q, and other network partners.

Marking the first anniversary of the Employment Equality (Age) Regulations 2006 which make it illegal to discriminate against anyone on the grounds of their age, the UK Older People’s Day will see a co-ordinated programme of events take place across the UK in a bid to raise awareness of inclusion and age discrimination issues relating to older people.

New research conducted for Jobcentre Plus discovered that 56 per cent of customers would prefer to use a business which they know has a diverse workforce, while over three-quarters (79 per cent) believe that it is important for businesses to have diversity policies in place.

More about addressing age discrimination.

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