United Kingdom claimant count: aged 65 and over
United Kingdom claimant count: aged 65 and over stood at 31,630 people in Aug 2026, according to Nomis — official labour market statistics (ONS). It is one of the indicators in the Labour market structure table (Value · Monthly), with a complete series running from Jan 1996 to Aug 2026. The complete series with an interactive chart, free to download.
This indicator in the Labour market structure table
| Indicator | 08-2026 | 07-2026 | 06-2026 | 05-2026 | 04-2026 | 03-2026 | 02-2026 | 01-2026 | 12-2025 | 11-2025 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Claimant count by age | |||||||||||
| Aged 65 and over | 31,630 | 30,645 | 29,910 | 26,555 | 25,300 | 25,150 | 25,070 | 25,140 | 24,840 | 25,005 | |
| All ages 16 and over | 1,698,450 | 1,660,035 | 1,672,265 | 1,677,865 | 1,678,250 | 1,693,865 | 1,686,585 | 1,635,860 | 1,625,690 | 1,636,235 |
Understanding united Kingdom claimant count: aged 65 and over
Compiling administrative records for individuals aged 65 and over who remain registered as jobseekers and claim unemployment benefits across the United Kingdom, this indicator monitors older workers extending their working lives beyond standard retirement ages. The series isolates individuals who have surpassed typical state retirement thresholds yet continue to participate in the formal job market through administrative benefit systems. The count encompasses those fulfilling active work-search obligations, while excluding the vast majority of the population in this age bracket who receive state pensions or private retirement incomes without claiming jobseeker support.
When reviewing this series, analysts must account for the small sample sizes and potential volatility inherent in tracking an age group where employment is atypical. Early monthly estimates are subject to administrative revisions as late claims are processed. Comparing figures over a twelve-month horizon provides a clearer picture than month-to-month movements, and users should ensure comparisons are not distorted by historical changes in state pension eligibility structures.
Frequently asked questions
- Who is included in this upper age bracket?
- It captures individuals aged 65 and over who continue to claim unemployment-related benefits.
- Why are the numbers in this series relatively small?
- Most individuals in this age group have transitioned to retirement pensions and do not claim jobseeker benefits.
- Are these figures subject to routine revisions?
- Yes, provisional monthly numbers are updated as administrative data is finalised.