A recent report reveals a concerning lack in UK employers’ approach towards discrimination, diversity, and inclusion.
- More than half of UK employers (56%) fail to enforce a zero-tolerance policy against workplace discrimination.
- Two in five employers (39%) lack any diversity and inclusion strategy, indicating significant room for improvement.
- Flexible working options remain limited, with only 47% of businesses offering such alternatives to employees.
- The report stresses that promoting equality and inclusivity is an ongoing process, not a short-term fix.
In recent findings, a notable 56% of UK employers do not maintain a zero-tolerance policy towards discrimination at work. This includes the absence of measures such as disciplining or dismissing managers who discriminate, according to research by Winckworth Sherwood. The study highlights an alarming gap in the commitment to combat workplace discrimination.
Moreover, two in five employers have yet to establish any form of diversity and inclusion strategy. Approximately 20% of businesses are currently taking no steps towards improving equality, diversity, and inclusion. This underscores the substantial efforts still required across various sectors to enhance workplace inclusivity in the UK.
From the employees’ perspective, the research noted nearly half of those surveyed believe their employers could increase their efforts to improve diversity and inclusion. Furthermore, one in four respondents recognised bias within their organisations. Flexible working emerged as the top improvement employees sought, yet less than half of the surveyed businesses offer this option.
The research forms part of a broader report by Winckworth Sherwood, featuring a survey conducted by YouGov. It involved over 1,000 employees and 600 HR decision makers across multiple industries. The report discusses how enhancing equality, diversity, and inclusion can foster innovation and attract key talent, while safeguarding against potential legal ramifications associated with discrimination.
Concerns were raised about ‘invisibility bias,’ particularly affecting home-workers, including women and those with disabilities. Also, every two in nine employees felt their leaders were not equipped to manage a multigenerational workforce, with age discrimination being a notable issue. Addressing these concerns is crucial for organisational success.
Report co-authors Louise Lawrence and Harriet Calver emphasised the importance of continuous improvement in promoting workplace diversity and inclusion. As employees’ attitudes evolve post-pandemic, the need for employers to adapt becomes increasingly pertinent.
The research underscores that UK employers must continually advance efforts to improve workplace diversity and inclusivity, adapting to evolving employee expectations.
