In 2017 one fifth of new business start ups were headed by those over 55, with women leading the way. 

People 50 plus account for less than one third of the workforce,  yet account for over 40% of new business start ups. Furthermore, those over 65 and self employed have more than doubled this decade.

And why not?

“There is a whole third life that people look forward to: it’s not just about sitting under a tree in the sun, it’s about staying active and keeping the brain stimulated. One way to do that is to keep working. And there is a financial imperative to make sure the future is secure as you live longer.” Liz Earle quoted in the Guardian

The good news is that new businesses set up by those 50 plus have been shown to be more likely to succeed than the average. Experience counts for a lot when making the leap.

Many who have had corporate careers who feel they have been  managed out of their jobs post 50, have the funds available to...

The first subject of our “Inspirational Women” posts, Cindy Joseph has been nominated by Group member, Joy, who says:

“Another inspirational lady dies too young. We can never have enough of these women who blaze a trail to say age is not a barrier. We do not have to become the stereotypical grandmother beyond the age of 60 but can reinvent ourselves and still make a contribution to the world of work, business and society in general.”

Ms Joseph died on 12th July at just 67. Having been a make up artist for most of her working life, at 49 her long, grey hair caught the eye of a model scout and she started a second career as a model, appearing in campaigns for major brands such as Dolce and Gabbana and Olay well into her 60s.

Having been asked constantly by other women to reveal what “anti-ageing” products she used, she decided to merge her careers as make up artist and model and took the leap into business. “Boom!” by Cindy Joseph claims...