Unclear about my employment rights

Maz123_3

Hello,

As a woman who reached 60 last year and expressed verbally that I would like to carry on working. My employer verbally said OK in September and I thought everything was fine.

However, I have since found out that my employer is thinking about forcing me to retire, which I believe he can do until April 2011, although he has to give me 6 months notice. I also believe that after April 2011 he can do nothing and I can continue to work.
It this possible that I could be forced to retire?

I've been employed by this company for over 6 years.

I am now unsure of my rights because and after looking at other threads similar to my request it appears that I can continue to work until 65 with no problem. It seems that it is up to my employer whether he wants to proceed with this action.
I must add that there has been nothing presented in writing by my employer or myself but, as mentioned before, I thought all was fine.

I now feel betrayed and uncertain about everything.

Is there anything I can or should be doing to safeguard against this?

I cannot afford a solicitor and hope that this can be resolved without one.

With thanks

MrsManda

The default retirement age is currently 65 for both men and women so I don't think your employer can force you to retire at 60 even under the current rules.

The default retirement age

The current law allows your employer to retire you at age 65. This is known as the default retirement age and is the same for men and women.
At present you have the right to ask your employer if you can work past your date of retirement and your employer must consider your request.

http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/Pensionsandretirementplanning/Working/WorkingToSuitYou/DG_184309

Strider590

Maz123 wrote: »

However, I have since found out that my employer is thinking about forcing me to retire, which I believe he can do until April 2011, although he has to give me 6 months notice.

They wouldn't tell you this, so how did you find out? Gossip?

getmore4less

AIUI Employers can still retire people just not on age up to 65.

Maz123_3

Hi MrsManda,
The article with Sky News regarding "Forced Retirement at 65 To Be Scrapped" which states that this is being phased in by April 2011 and I believe there may be a 'loophole' of some kind to forece the issue before April.

Hi Sprider590,
I saw an e-mail - no gossip.