Life Academy and the Oddfellow, two not for profit organisations, have pledged to work together in a more integrated and seamless way to maximise the contribution they can make to people approaching and in retirement.
The two organisations have nearly 250 years of experience between them which they will bring together to provide a new and stronger focus on retirement and financial education, welfare, advice and social activities. The focus will enable people to plan the transition form the workplace into an active and fulfilling retirement. The joint venture is particularly timely as the cohort from the post war baby boom year of 1947 approach the age of 65 in 2012. By 2034, 23% of the population is projected to be aged 65+.
Alan Pickering, Chairman of Life Academy said: "The UK has an ageing society. Average figures for individual incomes or assets are meaningless when some in society struggle, others flourish and many, irrespective of social position, face loneliness and a difficulty in maximising their enjoyment of retirement. There is however a fresh desire for an inclusive society, better preparation for retirement and an improved quality of life for older people. Life Academy and the Oddfellows have a unique range of knowledge and understanding. Bringing together the educational expertise of Life Academy with the welfare expertise of the Oddfellows unleashes a powerful new combination to help society".
Philip Howcroft, CEO of the Oddfellows said: "These are challenging times which require new approaches to retirement. We are delighted to be working with Life Academy to enhance our contribution to society. As Life Academy has a tradition in retirement education, so the Oddfellows has a tradition of engagement in welfare reform. We will be looking to bridge the gap between work and retirement, not only providing retirement education to the 80% of the working population who do not currently receive it, but also giving them the practical support and access to our experts in welfare, social and care issues".
Life Academy and the Oddfellows have launched a unique service to the corporate market: Holistic Retirement Solutions. The service provides a one-stop-shop of pre and post retirement benefits to employees and pensioner members. The two organisations will help bridge the retirement gap and expand their activities under this umbrella.
