The Chartered Institute of Personnel (CIPD) welcomes todayís sensible analysis of equality issues by the Commission for Equality and Human Rights (CEHR). We are particularly pleased with the recognition that this is a highly complex area and there are limits to what can be achieved through regulation. As the CIPDís recent survey on diversity shows, while the majority of employers respond to the legal duty of law, what really makes the difference is the appreciation of the business case and how managing diversity can add value to business performance.
The CIPD will be delighted to take up the invitation to participate in the CEHRís suggested working group of advice-giving organisations.
Dianah Worman, CIPD Diversity Adviser, said:
ìTrevor Phillips and his team have produced an interesting and considered report which provides a comprehensive analysis of the current state of diversity in the UK. While it is important to recognise that some of the ëdisadvantageí identified in the report is not simply a result of direct discrimination, it is essential to recognise that, as a nation, we foster widespread general understanding of the issues raised in the report because of the overwhelming economic imperatives.
ìThe CIPD strongly believes that the key to the problems identified in the report does not lie primarily in legislation. Instead, the crucial driver of change is to consistently and effectively make the business case for action. In reality there is growing evidence that a positive approach to diversity can bring the kinds of business benefits. We need to communicate these important messages and guidance about how to make progress.
Worman concludes, ìThe issues tackled in this report are complex. It would be fanciful to expect the majority of employers to read, digest and understand the inter-relationships between the issues covered in the report. The real challenge for the CEHR, which must take forward many of these findings, lies in getting this message across.î
The key challenge for new equalities body is to engage business
The Chartered Institute of Personnel (CIPD) welcomes todayís sensible analysis of equality issues by the Commission for Equality and Human Rights (CEHR)
