AI job screening is rejecting older workers — here's what to do
Applying for jobs is hard enough without artificial intelligence quietly binning your CV before a human even sees it. But that’s exactly what’s happening to thousands of British jobseekers, with AI screening tools allegedly filtering out applicants based on age — a practice that may be illegal.
According to recent reporting, recruitment software is using automated systems to reject CVs it deems the “wrong” age, effectively locking out older workers from opportunities. This isn’t just frustrating — it could breach UK age discrimination law.
Why this matters to you
If you’re job hunting and mysteriously not getting interviews despite being well-qualified, age bias in AI screening could be the culprit. Older workers, in particular, report being filtered out before their applications ever reach a recruiter’s desk. The problem is that many jobseekers never find out why they’ve been rejected, making it nearly impossible to challenge.
What the law says
Under the Equality Act 2010, employers cannot discriminate against you because of your age. This applies whether a human makes the decision or an algorithm does. If you believe you’ve been unfairly rejected by an AI system, you may have grounds for a complaint.
What you can do
If you suspect age discrimination during recruitment, keep records of every application you submit and any rejection correspondence. Note dates, job titles, and any feedback you receive. If you spot a pattern of rejections where your experience clearly matches the job spec, you can lodge a complaint with ACAS (the Advisory, Conciliation and Arbitration Service) for free advice on your rights.
You can also report the employer to the Equality and Human Rights Commission if you believe they’re systematically using discriminatory AI. Don’t stay silent — discrimination thrives when nobody speaks up.
The good news? This issue is gaining attention from regulators and policymakers, which means change is coming. In the meantime, consider asking recruiters directly how their screening process works, and don’t assume silence means rejection — push back professionally.
For free guidance on employment rights, contact ACAS at acas.org.uk or call 0300 123 1100.