We work with employers, leading non-department government bodies, and other champions to ensure an Investors in People organisation is committed to fairness and equality.

Inequalities Still Exist
The introduction of key legislation and the good work of campaigning bodies had resulted in the removal of many inequalities in recent years.  Despite such progress, we also know that inequalities still exist within some organisations and some people are more likely excluded from employment opportunities than others.

The impact of not treating people fairly has not only far reaching impact on those directly affected but also damages the wider workplace culture.  Where inequalities occur there is a risk to the reputation of an organisation within the business community and beyond.  Likewise, the exclusion of individuals or groups has an equally devastating impact on those affected, as well as denying an organisation of the skills that a diverse employee base can bring.

Organisations working with Investors in People recognise the importance of having strategies in place that provide equality of opportunity so that everyone can improve their performance through learning and development.

Focus within the Investors in People Standard/Profile
Whilst the Investors in People Standard focuses on equality of opportunity in the context of learning and development, our Profile tool takes it further, addressing specific areas including the culture of the organisation, recruitment and selection, and how an organisation promotes and values equality and diversity.

We know organisations are often best placed to implement solutions that will work best for them.  Due to this belief, Investors in People is a non-prescriptive Standard, and this includes our focus on equality.   However, our research has highlighted some employers need guidance to support their understanding.

Equality and Human Rights Commission 
The Equality and Human Rights Commission provides expert advice on key legislation and will be at the forefront of campaigning on this issue.  Investors in People supports the work of the new commission and provides a number of key links to their website.

Diversity Works: Moving On Diversity
In Northern Ireland, Diversity Works has done some excellent work capturing and comparing employer experiences of implementing a diversity management process. The report is available via the link on this page.

Taking Equality and Diversity Forward
Investors in People fully supports eradicating the root causes of inequalities and changing of unfair practices, policies, and beliefs in the workplace.  We are committed to assisting UK employers to promote inclusion and ensure opportunity for all. 

For more information please contact Rob Hargreaves, Development Manager on robh@iipuk.co.uk