useful guidance
UKCAE's response to "How Fair is Britain?" Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC), October 2010
The EHRC has published the findings of its first triennial review, which shows that the United Kingdom is becoming a fairer place. It has found however, that many areas of discrimination still persist. This is a significant challenge, particularly in the workplace with issues such as pay inequality; and in some areas, such as religion and disability, discrimination is increasing. The EHRC identified fifteen significant challenges for the future, of which five related to the workplace.
The review is factual and wide-ranging, drawing together research from a number of authoritative contributors across a spectrum of daily issues for people in the United Kingdom. It is a significant publication in the field of diversity and equality that identifies trends and challenges. This should help focus the scarce resources of public, private and third sector organisations.
The findings can make uncomfortable reading for a country that prides itself on equality. We should not be surprised by this in such a wide-ranging report covering Life, Health, Safety & Crime, The Law, Education & Learning, Homes & Money, Jobs & Other Things, Friends, Family & Social Life, Being Who You Are, and Taking Part in the Community. There are clear areas for development in the health service, police, the judiciary, prisons and education, as well as for employers.
It appears that the United Kingdom is more tolerant, open and informed than 10 years ago. However, as the report confirms, discrimination is not static: it changes over time as society itself changes. We all have a continuing part to play in helping to challenge and eliminate discrimination, both as individuals and as employers. The effects of discrimination are personal, but the causes vary from unthinking organisational systems and practices to personal attitudes and behaviour.
"Evidence suggests that the workplace remains a stressful and difficult place for some groups." Changing attitudes can take time, but changing organisational systems should not. As employers we need to ensure that the policies, processes and practices we follow are fair and free from discrimination as well as ensuring that our goods, facilities and services are open to everyone. We need to ensure that every individual understands what can cause discrimination and their role in helping to stop such behaviour.
So what can business actually do? Reviews are useful, but it is action that brings about change.
UKCAE has produced, in close partnership with our Founder Members, observers and external contributors, the UKCAE Pathway: a clear and practical approach that helps to make the workplace more open and effective. The UKCAE Pathway improves, optimises and demonstrates an organisation’s performance in the field of equality and diversity. The UKCAE Pathway is about action, not intention: practice, not policy.
Find out more about the UKCAE Pathway and how it can help you.
Read and/or download the EHRC triennial review and supporting documents (external website).
