How can we make best use of people's skills post- retirement?

As a young apprentice many years ago, retirement to me seemed like a lifetime away and the appealing vision appeared in my mind - no deadlines to get up for in the mornings, sitting in the garden admiring the flowers, catching up with lifetime friends and basically, enjoying my days as I please. Fast forward to the here and now and this utopia has still to happen!

Things have changed since I was a youngster, with working age people choosing vastly different paths for their careers, especially in a digital age where echnology moves ahead at breath-taking pace.

That said, I firmly believe that us 'oldies' have acquired a multitude of skills and knowledge during our lifetimes and by simply reaching a particular age it doesn't mean that there is no longer a place for those qualities. Indeed, some individuals choose to continue in their jobs beyond retirement age and this is good for our
economy, but also for that individual's wellbeing.

Beyond retirement for some represents a perfect opportunity to take on a part-time role where their skills and expertise can be called on. Take, for example, B&Q, where it's frequently a retired tradesman who is able to guide a novice through the process in achieving specific home improvements, a specialist nurse who is able to contribute her skills through a charitable organisation for those needing palliative care, or a teacher who can use her knowledge as an exam invigilator. The list is endless.

So how can we make the best use of all these skills? I think we already are,especially as the decision whether to continue working after retirement is very much
a personal one.

However, if you think your skills could be used at the Town Hall, why not become a Councillor?