VRA AGM & Why We Need to Understand and Think About Ageism

DATE / TIME 27/03/2025
12:00 pm - 1:30 pm


EVENT DESCRIPTION

 

Presentation Title:
VRA AGM & Why We Need to Understand and Think About Ageism

This event will include our annual AGM, an opportunity for you to have your say on how our organisation moves forward.

Event Speaker:
Professor Sarah Vickerstaff
Professor Emerita of Work and Employment, University of Kent

Date & Time:
27th March 12pm – 1.30pm

About the Presentation:
In 2010, age became a protected characteristic under the UK Equality Act, yet it remains one of the least understood and addressed forms of discrimination in organizational and professional contexts. Unlike sexism or racism, casual ageism is more widespread and often overlooked.

In this insightful presentation, Professor Sarah Vickerstaff will unpack the concept of ageism, exploring how it manifests in both direct and indirect discrimination, as well as through internalized attitudes. She will also highlight the profound impact ageism has on health and wellbeing and present actionable strategies to counteract its harmful effects in the workplace.

Why Attend?
This event is essential for HR professionals, business leaders, policymakers, and anyone seeking to foster an inclusive, age-diverse workplace.

About the Speaker:
Professor Sarah Vickerstaff is a globally recognized sociologist specializing in work and employment in later life. With over 25 years of experience, she has been a leading voice in understanding older workers, retirement, and the impact of ageism in employment. She has served as a Specialist Adviser to the UK Parliament and is an elected Fellow of the Gerontological Society of America.

As a researcher, her ground-breaking studies have shaped both academic thought and policy, helping organizations create age-inclusive practices.

Further Reading and Resources:
Is part of ageism actually ableism? (Ageing & Society, 2022)
The Impact of Age Stereotypes and Age Norms on Employees’ Retirement Choices (Frontiers in Sociology, 2021)
Explore more research: Gendered Ageism and Disableism

Stay Connected:
Follow Professor Vickerstaff on Bluesky: @savickerstaff

Don’t miss this opportunity to deepen your understanding of ageism and learn how to create a fairer, more inclusive workplace.

Recordings of the event will be provided to all those who register along with copies of the slides and any resources provided.

CPD attendance certificates will be provided free of charge to members upon request however a small charge of £15 will be applied to all requests from non-members