Equal - Digital Repository

Despite the UK having had gender equality legislation in place for nearly 30 years there is still significant evidence of gendered labour market discrimination. The labour market is segmented vertically and horizontally with women continuing to experience systematic disadvantage in employment. Part-time employees, the majority of whom are women experience especially high levels of disadvantage and discrimination. There is also significant evidence of gender stereotyping in employment with certain occupations being seen as ‘suitable’ for men and others for women. Research suggests that even where employers have equal opportunity policies in place many remain empty shells with little if any attempt to implement them. Family friendly policies while an important element of the implementation of gender equality in the workplace can divert attention from the need to pay attention to policies, procedures and practices that may discriminate against one gender (usually women) in the recruitment, development and promotion of staff. There is increasing evidence; however that promoting gender equality in the workplace makes good business sense especially in the Scottish context where a declining population and an ageing workforce means increasing competing amongst firms to recruit employees This project aims to assess the business case in areas associated with Genderwise Scotlands other projects to be presented to policymakers and mainstreaming partners during Action 3. It will investigate the barriers to the implementation of gender equality policies and practices in the work place and develop a good practice guide for employers. To highlight the links between gender equality and competitiveness. Practices are assessed in terms of the extent to which they: 1. Help attract, retain and promote the best talent irrespective of gender. 2. Aid the identification of and capitalising on opportunities to improve products and services. 3. Assist in attracting more female customers. Improve the quality of decision making at all levels and enhance the companies' management style. 4. Reduce the companies' risks of legal non compliance and the costs of litigation. 5. Reap t