LRD guides and handbook July 2013

Representing older workers - a guide for trade union negotiators

Chapter 2

Job adverts

A statement in job advertisements that the organisation strives to be an equal opportunity employer and that it welcomes job applications from people of all ages, and/or from groups which are under-represented in the organisation, is good practice.

According to Acas it makes sound business sense to attract a wide field of applicants. Adverts should be accessible to a large audience. It recommends avoiding publications or employment agencies focused on a niche market that could limit the diversity of applicants and may constitute indirect discrimination. “As well as considering the language you use in adverts, think also about the hidden messages that may be present in any promotional literature that you have, particularly the pictures,” it says.