Equity, diversity and inclusion: government fund seeks to improve equality-related outcomes in Scotland’s workplaces

News

An initiative has been launched through which Scottish businesses and organisations - including those in the FM sector - can apply for financial support for projects aimed at reducing employment inequalities for priority groups within the workplace.

Administered by Advice Direct Scotland in partnership with the Scottish Government, the Workplace Equality Fund endeavours to address barriers to entry and progression in the labour market so that everyone - regardless of gender, age, race, or disability - can fulfil their potential.

By promoting positive, fair and inclusive practices, projects must seek to improve employment opportunities for one or more of the following priority groups: women (including those returning to the workplace after a career break); minority ethnic workers; disabled workers; older workers (aged over 50); people experiencing gender-based violence; people experiencing social isolation and/or loneliness; those experiencing symptoms of the menopause; and veterans and spouses of veterans.

It is intended that organisations whose projects receive funding will:

• improve their knowledge, skills and practices with respect to addressing employment inequalities
• develop their knowledge and skills around fair work principles and build their capability to address systemic issues related to equity, diversity and inclusion
• increase their understanding of the employment challenges faced by priority groups, and how to address them
• increase their organisational transparency concerning recruitment and progression practices in pursuit of fairer processes.  

Private, public and third sector organisations can apply before 11^th April 2022 for a maximum of £75,000 per annum for up to two years. Further details can be found at www.equalityadvice.scot.

IWFM recently published our Public Statement on Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI), outlining our commitment to placing EDI at the heart of our organisation, governance, membership and profession. Our ambition is to foster and support improved EDI practices throughout the workplace and facilities management profession, to create a community in which all people feel included, valued, supported and that they belong, achieving better outcomes for all. Morally and socially, we believe that this is the right thing to do. You can find out more about our EDI work here.