Nearly one-third of women in the 50-64 age bracket are economically inactive in the UK, according to data cited in a recent Guardian column by Zoe Williams. The column highlights the personal experience of long-term unemployment, which people rarely share due to superstition or fear of criticism.
Instagram post sparks conversation
Stacey Duguid, 52, a fashion and journalism professional, shared on Instagram that she had sent out 150 job applications over more than a year, many without replies. Thousands of women responded with similar experiences, framing the issue as an "older woman" or perimenopause story. The data supports this: 30% of women aged 50-64 are economically inactive, compared to 22% of men.
Sandwich years and career challenges
Williams notes that this age group often faces the "sandwich years," balancing childcare and care for elderly parents. She argues that keeping regular working hours while managing end-of-life crises is impossible, suggesting that more HRT is not the solution. Gender splits in economic inactivity are significant, but the causes are broader than hormones.
AI and entry-level jobs
For younger workers, entry-level positions are declining, with AI wiping out starter jobs in sectors like software engineering, accounting, legal assistance, and data analysis. Government analysis confirms the trend, and figures show new graduate vacancies dropped by a third since ChatGPT's arrival. Applicants report being rejected by AI in less time than a human could read their application.
A systemic problem
Williams concludes that ageism and AI are systemic issues affecting the workforce at both ends, trapping employed people in a scarcity mindset. She urges openness about worklessness to recognize it as a collective problem rather than an individual failing.
