Have your say on Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

Creating more equitable workplaces will have huge benefits for both society and business.  That is why the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) Workplace Equity Commission is inviting businesses to share their views and insights on Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion (ED&I) best practice in business, any challenges they are facing and where support is needed.

The BCC wants to help SMEs adapt the way they operate to make it easier for people from diverse talent pools to access jobs and progress in their careers.  This Commission will produce practical recommendations for employers and Chamber members across the Chamber network alongside policy recommendations for government.

The Questions the Commission wants to address: 

1. How do we create a culture where leaders ensure workplace equity is at the heart of business and where they commit to the cultural change required?

2. What challenges do SMEs face in creating equitable workplaces and how can they be supported to overcome them?  What are the critical factors that would help employers?

3. What positive actions are businesses taking to develop equitable workplaces? Please tell us about any specific initiatives or cultural change programmes that have worked well.   

  • What was the catalyst that led to the desire to change? 
  • What are the factors that made the initiative successful?   
  • What has been the impact of this investment?  

4. How can we support employers to accommodate the diverse and often complex needs of individuals that may limit opportunity?’ 

5. What funding and/or support can businesses access to support their efforts to create more equitable workplaces? 

6. How can local government, Chambers of Commerce and other partners at a local level work together to support SMEs?  Where are the examples of best practice in collaborative working? 

7. What change in government policy (UK and/or devolved) could make the biggest difference in helping SMEs to create equitable workplaces?  

8. What lessons can we learn from other countries?  

Businesses, individuals and organisations with views and experience are all encouraged to contribute to the research. The Call for Evidence is open until 16 February 2024.

Evidence should be submitted to: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. 

Find out more about the BCC Workplace Equity Commission here