Penny Lancaster slams Labour with scathing three-word remark

Rod Stewart's wife, Penny Lancaster, has condemned the government for not "looking after" older people who are looking for work. Speaking on Tom Swarbrick's LBC radio show, the 55-year-old mum of two gave a scathing three-word verdict on the situation. "You know whether they've left work or been made redundant, some due to going through lockdown, others, maybe having to take time off looking after elderly parents and not being able to get back in the workplace. And of course, their confidence is shattered. It's pretty sad that we can't take care of those particular age groups, men and women in the prime of their careers, with all the life's experiences, as well as experience within the workplace," she said.

The issue has been ongoing for several years and has seen people over 50 struggling to find employment despite being qualified and having relevant experience. In July 2022, research published by Legal & General Retail Retirement (LGRR) and the Centre for Economics and Business Research (Cebr) showed one in 10 over-50s had disappeared from the workforce in the previous five years after being made redundant.

In August 2025, Caroline Abrahams of Age UK stressed the importance of work for over-50s – but warned they need better help from the Government, highlighting the health issues they may suffer.

She said: “It’s hugely important that whenever the over-50s want or need to work, they can do so. Working not only helps people keep the lights on but also very often gives them a sense of identity and purpose, while maintaining their social connectedness through interactions with customers and colleagues.

“However, with more over-50s than ever before experiencing poor health that prevents them from working, it’s important that the Government improves the support on offer.

"For example, the system of sick pay isolates many low-paid workers from receiving support, while long waiting lists in the NHS prevent people from accessing the necessary medical treatment.”

In August last year, Dame Diana Johnson issued a written statement on the issue, which read: “The Government is reforming Jobcentre Plus and creating a new jobs and careers service that will enable everyone, including the over-50s, to access support to find good, meaningful work, and support to help them progress in their careers.

"This includes an enhanced focus on skills and careers advice," she confirmed.

She confirmed the range of support available: “DWP currently offers employment support for those older jobseekers affected by low confidence, menopause, health and disability or caring pressures, and out-of-date skills or qualifications.

“Through Midlife MOTs, delivered in Jobcentres across the UK, and online, we support older people to assess their health, finances and skills."