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Diversity Can Deliver Profits says Rights Group |
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Written by admin
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Monday, 18 December 2006 |
A new leaflet has been produced by the Department of Communities and Local Government and gay rights group Stonewall to inform small businesses on their responsibilities to under employment equality regulations.
There are some 3.6 million gay people in Britain of which 1.7 million are in the country’s workforce. Under the regulations firms it is unlawful to discriminate against a person due to their sexual orientation.
The Guide which has been backed by Stonewall, states that the adoption of a diversity policy within a firm is actually good for business and the guide spells out what small firms need to be aware of.
It advises that firms:
- Ensure that they understand the laws and comply with the regulations.
- Tackle stereotypes and assumptions via staff education.
- Make sure your staff know what is expected and what the consequences are in cases of bullying and harassment.
- Ensue contractors are aware and will comply with your anti-discrimination policy.
- Tell staff to be vigilant and do not inadvertently discriminate against gay and lesbian staff.
Stonewall says that a firm can enhance its reputation and recruitment by adopting a diversity policy adding that a perception from staff that the firm is not diverse can turn talented staff away from joining you.
They add that employers should take tangible steps to enhance diversity in their workplaces.
They should:
- Include an anti-discrimination statement within the application forms and any recruitment ads.
- Ensure that all benefits such as compassionate leave are available to all staff. This will ensure gay staff are not afraid to ask for leave in terms of a partner’s illness and the lack of such a system has been found to see some gay staff leave the firm rather then be force to argue for such benefits.
- Make the workplace environment one where your gay workers feel comfortable to discuss their lives like every other worker.
- Have a member of staff which will champion diversity and equality within the business.
- Market your firm to the gay community and tap into the “pink pound” which is estimated to be worth £70 billion.
Stephen Alambritis, of the Federation of Small Business said: “This guide is a must read for small businesses wanting to get their diversity policy on track and take advantage of the pink pound which is now estimated to be worth £70 billion.”
Arbitration service Acas’ chair Rita Donaghy added: “Acas welcomes this new guide and the role it will play in the fight to combat discrimination in the workplace.”
Details of how to obtain a copy of the guide can be found at www.stonewall.org.uk/workplace |
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Last Updated ( Monday, 29 January 2007 )
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