The removal of the default retirement age is top of the most important issues facing organisations in Hampshire, according to research by Warner Goodman.
The study found that 60% of respondents from small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) have welcomed the legislation that means employees no longer have to retire at 65, and enables organisations to retain staff.
However, 40% stated that if older employees are unable to perform their duties well and wish to work until they are 90, it could become a constraint to the business.
Some respondents admit that they may look at disciplinary action if an employee does not want to retire, but is considered unable to perform their duties satisfactorily.
Sarah Whitemore, employment lawyer at Warner Goodman, said: "SMEs are facing a raft of new legislation which they want to understand while at the same time dealing with issues relating to company law, employment legislation, health and safety requirements, and the fast-moving world of social media.
"What our research has shown is that organisations have diverse requirements when it comes to keeping up to date with different areas of law and the support they need with employment law knowledge is particularly crucial.”
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