Equality, diversity and human rights
As the Government puts a renewed focus on actions to close the gender pay gap, we look at the progress made by organisations over the past year.
Mentorship and sponsorship are often treated as interchangeable, but they play very different roles in career progression - particularly for women. Vernujaa Nagandiram explains why a system of formal, evenly distributed sponsorship is key to achieving more equitable professional outcomes.
In a simpler world, it would be possible to separate our "work lives" from our "home lives" - our personal characteristics would not adversely influence our workplace experiences. However, argues global inequalities specialist Georgie Williams, if anything has been learned through diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) initiatives in the workplace over the last decade, it is that the world of work is inextricably linked with our personal lives and the wider societal context we find ourselves in.
All along the leadership pipeline, unconscious gender bias can quietly narrow women's progression - even when decisions look neutral and intentions are fair. Here are three mechanisms that explain how seemingly neutral decisions can compound into unequal leadership outcomes - and where employers can intervene to reduce bias at the source.
The Employment Rights Act 2025 packs an imposing number of employment law reforms into its 289 pages.
As demand for neurodiversity support grows, employers need to develop approaches that go beyond awareness weeks. These six building blocks show how to weave neuro-inclusive practices into daily management techniques so that neurodivergent employees can thrive.
As a conversation topic, diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) is often discussed in the context of the general workforce rather than leadership. But when it comes to DEI, senior leadership can both lead the charge and hinder the change, depending on the values and principles they embody.
The beauty of DEI is that it is intended to reflect the perspectives and needs of the majority - so why not integrate the majority into its execution? Instead of a "top-down" dissemination of DEI policies, decentralised systems may be a way to ease pressure on overworked HR departments and draw on the expertise and perspectives of the wider workforce.
Are organisations legally obliged to carry out risk assessments? What happens if a complainant says they want to remain anonymous? The law relating to workplace harassment is complex and underwent significant changes in 2024, with further reforms expected to be introduced in October 2026 as part of the Employment Rights Act 2025.
Will the introduction of third-party harassment liability for employers lead to pub-goers being banned from discussing contentious subjects over a pint? And do employers really have little to fear from the risk of a tribunal claim in terms of ultimate compensation awards? Stephen Simpson sets out to bust some employment law myths.
Commentary and insights: HR and legal information and guidance relating to equality, diversity and human rights.