In January, more than 80 employers, training providers and equality organisations gathered together in Glasgow to highlight the importance of diversity in the workplace at the launch of the Employers’ Equality Action Fund.
The fund, operated by Skills Development Scotland, offers grants of between £3,000 and £10,000 to private, public and voluntary sector employers to run pilot projects aimed at improving access to Modern Apprenticeships amongst under-represented groups.
The fund aims to support young people who are either from a black or minority ethnic community, have a disability or have a care background – and endeavours to diversify roles that are traditionally seen as male or female. Speakers from Mitie, the facilities management company, along with engineering firm MacTaggart Scott, delivery service DNDP, and the Action for Children charity explained the steps they have taken to recruit underrepresented groups.
Mark McCafferty, Mitie’s Regional HR Manager, said: “The fund provides a great opportunity for employers to try to level the playing field for all groups within the labour market.
“All too often we let our unconscious bias towards particular groups prevail, to the detriment of equally capable and motivated apprentice candidates.
“This initiative will encourage employers to think differently about the wider candidate pool when considering modern apprenticeships.”
Bruce Gunn, Chief Executive of DNDP, spoke to the audience in Glasgow, highlighting the disparity in employment opportunities between those with disabilities and those without. He said: “There is a definite inequality of opportunity within modern apprenticeships and hopefully events like this will help to break down some preconceptions.”
Maria Williamson, Children's Services Manager for Action for Children, added: “The event was a really good opportunity to share and hear how others are supporting the equalities agenda.
“The fund will help employers to take a proactive approach to promoting equality through raising awareness and engaging minority groups into their industry.”
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For further information, contact:
Lauren Hepburn, Investor and Public Relations Manager, Mitie Group plc
T:+44 20 3123 8720 E:lauren.hepburn@mitie.com
John Telling, Corporate Affairs Director, Mitie Group plc
T:+44 20 3123 8673 E: john.telling@mitie.com
