Making a career change in your 40s or 50s is a big decision, but it’s far more common than many people realise. A growing number of people in midlife are reassessing what they want from work. Some are navigating redundancy or restructuring, while others are seeking a role that feels more purposeful, flexible or aligned with the life they want now. The idea that career change belongs only to younger workers is outdated. Today, employers across the UK actively recognise the value and stability that mature workers bring to their organisations.
Recent findings from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) show that adults aged 50 to 64 are one of the fastest-growing groups re-entering the workforce or exploring new training options. At the same time, employers in sectors such as health and social care, customer service, public services, community support and administration are increasingly looking for applicants with strong communication skills, reliability and real-world experience. These are exactly the strengths that adults in their 40s and 50s naturally bring.
Why Career Change Later in Life Is More Common Than Ever
People consider career changes at midlife for many reasons and the motivations are often deeply personal. Some are looking for a fresh start after redundancy. Others are seeking roles that offer more stability or flexibility. Many adults also reach a point where they want their work to feel more meaningful or aligned with their skills and values. The modern job market makes these transitions possible and with the right support, many people discover that their second career is more fulfilling than the first.
One of the biggest advantages mature workers have is experience. Years of working with people, solving problems and managing responsibilities translate into transferable strengths that employers value highly. These include communication, empathy, leadership, resilience, organisation and the ability to stay calm under pressure. These are skills that cannot be taught easily and employers increasingly report difficulty finding them among younger candidates. Your experience is not a barrier, it’s an asset.
Digital Skills Are Important But You Don’t Need to Be an Expert
A common concern is the feeling of being “behind” when it comes to technology. Many people worry that digital skills are a major obstacle to returning to work or switching careers. The reality is that most jobs only require basic digital abilities such as using emails, online job platforms, video calls or simple software. These are skills that can be learned quickly with the right support and confidence grows with practice.
This is one of the key reasons why structured programmes for adults over 50 focus on building digital confidence. When people feel supported, they find that learning new skills is not only achievable but empowering. Once the initial barrier is overcome, many realise that digital skills are far less intimidating than they imagined.
The Importance of Guidance During Career Transition
Trying to make a major career change alone can feel overwhelming. There are questions about what direction to take, what roles suit your skills, how to update your CV or whether you need additional training. Structured guidance can make the entire process more manageable. Career advisers help you understand your strengths, identify realistic opportunities and create a clear plan for moving forward.
This is exactly the type of support offered through the specialist GSS Thrive 50+ Employability Programme, delivered in partnership with Ealing, Hammersmith and Fulham Jobcentre Plus teams. The programme is designed specifically for people aged 50 and above who want to build confidence, develop new skills and explore suitable career paths.
Participants take part in a 12-week programme that blends digital training, employability support and personalised coaching. The structure includes two days of workshops per week for the first six weeks, followed by one day per week for the final six weeks. Throughout the programme, individuals receive support with digital skills, confidence building, CV development, interview preparation and career planning. Sessions are delivered in a warm and supportive environment that respects individual needs and learning styles.
Who the Programme Supports and How It Helps
The programme is open to residents in Ealing, Hammersmith and Fulham who are working with their local Jobcentre Plus. It is designed for people who may be returning to work after a period away, considering new sectors, or rebuilding confidence following redundancy or life changes. Many participants begin the programme feeling unsure of what direction to take. By the end, they often report greater clarity, new skills and a renewed sense of motivation.
One of the strengths of the programme is that it acknowledges the specific challenges faced by people over 50. It provides a safe space to ask questions, develop confidence and explore new possibilities without judgment or pressure. The combination of structured guidance and personal support helps participants make informed decisions about their next steps.
If you are in Hammersmith, Fulham or Ealing, you can join the programme by speaking directly to your Work Coach at your local Jobcentre Plus. Simply request referral to the GSS Over 50s Employability Programme (Programme Reference: WL126). Work Coaches already have the programme details and will guide you through the process.
How to Approach Career Change in Your 40s or 50s
If you’re thinking about making a change, start by reflecting on your strengths and interests. What type of work feels meaningful to you? What environments do you thrive in? Understanding your motivations helps you find roles that match your goals.
Next, consider the skills you’ve built over the years. Many people underestimate their own abilities, especially when they’ve spent years working in a single industry. But transferable skills such as teamwork, communication, leadership, customer service, planning and resilience are highly valued in many different roles.
Training can also play a key role in helping you transition to something new. Short courses, confidence-building workshops and digital training can open the door to opportunities you may not have considered before. Even small steps, such as updating your CV or learning to use online job platforms, can have a major impact on your confidence and readiness.
A career change does not need to happen overnight. With the right plan, support and mindset, you can move at your own pace and make steady progress toward your next chapter.
Final Thoughts
Switching careers in your 40s or 50s is not only achievable for many people, it becomes a positive turning point. With the right support, you can build your confidence, refresh your skills and discover opportunities that align with your goals and values.
If you live in Ealing, Hammersmith or Fulham, the GSS Thrive 50+ Employability Programme can help you make that transition with guidance, structure and encouragement. To join, simply speak with your local Jobcentre Plus Work Coach and request referral onto the programme.