New £800,000 fund to reduce workplace discrimination

An £800,000 fund to reduce workplace discrimination and inequality is now open for applications.

The Workplace Equality Fund, which has been increased from £750,000 last year, will give money to employers for initiatives to reduce discrimination in the workplace.

Projects which have previously received funding include an initiative to help mothers back into work, developing good practice on mental health in the workforce, creating tools to help support people with cancer in the workplace, and supporting British minority ethnic women to help find employment.

Fair Work Minister Jamie Hepburn said: “The Scottish Government wants to work with employers to address the long-standing barriers which particular groups face in entering and progressing in the labour market so that everyone has the opportunity to fulfil their potential. This will improve Scotland’s economic performance as a result.

“I am delighted that the £800,000 Workplace Equality Fund for 2019/20 is open for applications. It’s building on the success of previous projects and by making more funding available to businesses, it will positively 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.”