A new website has been launched aimed at linking skilled retirees with those in need of their expertise.
Budding pensioners are listing themselves on www.Retired4Hire.co.uk to advertise their skills to younger people who need help doing anything from putting up some shelves to making jewellery.
More than 200 services are available on the free online market place, ranging from one off advice on a tax return, to a series of music lessons, or even builders and gardeners.
One user, retired fireman Terry, uses the site to advertise his newly-honed skills as a jeweller.
“At a young age I decided I wanted to be a jeweller, but my parents decided it was too unstable,” he said. “I ended up becoming a fireman and had a very enjoyable career, which lasted almost 40 years.
“Upon retirement however, I found myself with enough time to take up my long lost passion. So I enrolled on a jewellery-making course and soon had my own kiln and workshop set up in my home.
“Since then my wife, an ex-teacher, has learnt enamelling and now we work together on designing and selling handmade pieces and commissions.
“It’s a wonderful opportunity for us to spend more time together, learn new skills, have a creative outlet, meet new people, and make extra income.
Creators Chris Croft and Hagen Rose came up with the idea for the site one afternoon while they discussed their future retirement and their concerns.
They hope by advertising their skills retirees will be able to alleviate the inevitable boredom that comes from finishing work, a lack of income as well as help connect people to their local community.
The pair claim customers of the retired professionals will even benefit too, but gaining someone at a potentially cheaper price who has a wealth of experience and wisdom. Chris and Hagen do not take commission from the listings and leave it up to the participants to agree on suitable prices.
