Forties People

Demand for 50-plus jobs in Britain is likely to remain high over the next few years, as many parents are postponing their retirement.

According to a survey by The Children's Mutual, more than half of those who have children aged between 18 and 30 have no choice but to work for longer.

This was found to be because the financial burdens faced by their offspring mean they feel obliged to offer some form of support.

David White, chief executive of The Children's Mutual, commented: "Parents of today's young adults face an unenviable choice - secure their retirement or fund their children's futures."

He said very few Britons are able to do both, which means the number of people staying in work for longer will continue to rise.

Mr White urged parents who have young children to plan ahead as early as possible so they can avoid facing this situation.

However, women in particular could be storing up problems for the future after a Defaqto study found that only 21 per cent are currently saving up for retirement.

Posted by Mary King