Age Scotland is urging the Scottish government to implement in-depth career and retirement planning advice, as 43 per cent of working adults are doubtful of their ability to retire when they reach the state pension age.

According to YouGov research for Age Scotland and Business in the Community (BITC), 43 per cent of Scots aged 40 to 64, estimated to be more than 786,000 people, say that they will not have enough money to retire when they are able to obtain the state pension.

As a result, it has been found that greater numbers of Scots are planning to work into their 60s and later, with 44 per cent saying they would do so to afford their desired lifestyle in retirement.

The research also noted that 36 per cent of those who plan to work past the state pension age believe they will be working in their current job with the same hours; 25 per cent plan to decrease their hours.

In order to combat the retirement issue and to encourage longer working lives, Age Scotland is urging the Scottish and UK governments to introduce a career MOT at 50 for all and a mid-life career review, ensuring that the pensions dashboard helps with this. Workers also suggested the need to consider their pensions and savings provision earlier to help them save for retirement and asked for support in planning their ideal retirement.

Age Scotland chief executive Brian Sloan said: “It’s worrying that retirement seems increasingly unaffordable for a growing number of Scots. While there are various reasons people choose to keep working, money concerns are the main factor forcing them to work into their late 60s and beyond. At the same time, many feel they will need to reduce their hours or switch to a less physically demanding job.

“There is a growing need for more guidance to help people plan their future working life and prepare ahead for retirement. We’re pleased that most Scots support our plan for a ‘career MOT at 50’ to enable them to make informed choices about training, pension provision and future career options.

“As the State Pension age increases, working longer is set to become part of life. We’re urging the Scottish government to continue to invest in our older workers, tackle barriers to working, and offer mid-career guidance to everyone who requires it.”

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