Supporting workplace equality

A £500,000 fund to promote equality within the workplace has been opened by Employability Minister Jamie Hepburn.

The Workplace Equality Fund offers grants to reduce employment inequalities, discrimination and barriers for minority ethnic people, women, disabled people and older workers.

The Fund will support delivery of the Scottish Government’s Programme for Government; Race Equality Framework; Disability Action Plan; and Scotland’s Labour Market Strategy.

The funding will support employers to reduce employment inequalities, discrimination and barriers, particularly across the arts, culture, leisure, tourism, finance, manufacturing, construction, agriculture and fishing, transport and communication and STEM sectors.

The fund will be delivered by the Voluntary Action Fund. Speaking during a visit to their offices, Mr Hepburn said:

“We want the same employment opportunities for all so that everyone, irrespective of gender, race or disability, has the opportunity to fulfil their potential and improve Scotland’s economic performance as a result.

“I am delighted to open applications for the Workplace Equality Fund, which will make funding available to businesses to change attitudes, cultures and workplace practices.

“I would strongly encourage every employer to find out how they and their workforce can use this fund to remove barriers to equality.”

Keith Wimbles, Chief Executive, Voluntary Action Fund said:

“The Voluntary Action Fund is very pleased that the Scottish Government is investing in the private sector to promote workplace equality and address barriers to entry and progression in employment.

“VAF is committed to equality, diversity and inclusion in the workplace and through its business activities. We are therefore delighted to manage the Workplace Equality Fund on behalf of the Scottish Government and look forward to working with businesses to maximise the impact of the investment.”