Private sector

Private sector organisations are increasingly aware of the benefits to their business of a diverse workforce. Businesses whose workforces mirror their customer base are able to respond more quickly with products and services their customers want and need.

A third of employers surveyed by Human resource management consultants Hudson believe that transparent pay equality is necessary to increase the representation of women in the workforce.

Ensuring pay transparency requires businesses to take a detailed look at their pay systems and compare the pay earned by men and women. It then requires employers to make sure they can justify any discrepancy in pay.

Increasing the representation of women is not the only win for businesses that undertake reviews of their pay systems. Other benefits include improved retention, increased morale, reduced absenteeism, a positive corporate image, and enhanced productivity and innovation. Pay is one of the key factors affecting motivation and relationships at work.

Ensuring that pay systems are fair also mitigates the risks of claims being taken against your business under the Equality Act. Tribunals in Scotland can award up to five years back pay, plus interest, to men and women who bring successful equal pay claims. The damage caused to the reputation of a business by a tribunal loss is difficult to measure.

Close the Gap can provide free confidential support and assistance to employers in carrying out pay reviews. We can also work with your organisation to identify ways in which you can address any barriers to women’s progression.

To find out what we can do for your business, please contact us.