Workplace Equality Fund opens to applications

A £500,000 Scottish Government fund to promote equality within the workplace has been opened to applications from employers.

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

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, Employability Minister Jamie Hepburn commented: "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 of the Voluntary Action Fund, added: "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."

www.voluntaryactionfund.org.uk/