A READING-based law firm is extending its income protection scheme to all its colleagues, up to the age of 70.
Osborne Clarke says it was one of the first legal businesses to sign the Centre for Ageing Better’s Age-friendly Employer Pledge, and is introducing the benefit from April 1. At the moment the policy stops at 65.
It is a core benefit that the firm provides at no cost to all its employees. Colleagues qualify for membership provided that they are at least 16.
And this fits in with its commitment to being an age-friendly employer, committing to take at least one specific action each year to improve the recruitment, retention and development of workers over 50.
One of its Age Network champions, Danielle Kingdon, was instrumental in bringing about the policy change.
“Unfortunately Covid has made us all very aware that the unexpected can happen at any time to anyone. Having a plan in place to ensure you’re covered gives some peace of mind if you’re faced with a difficult health situation,” said Ms Kingdon.
She worked on the project with its head of reward, Sarah Underhill, who said: “Income protection is often considered an important part of good financial planning, ensuring people’s future well-being is protected if illness or injury prevents them from working for an extended period.”
