Firms 'benefit from embracing diversity'

Companies are being urged to embrace diversity, by two organisations that do not always agree on matters of employment.

The report Talent and Tokenism was launched today by the CBI employers' organisation and the Trades Union Congress (TUC).

It argues that companies that employ people on the basis of their abilities and potential, and without discrimination, can benefit in a number of ways. These include higher morale and productivity, lower recruitment costs and a better understanding of customers' needs.

The report also indentifies leadership from senior management and employee involvement through unions as key elements in bringing about change.

Among the companies featured in the report, law firm Pinsent Masons have set up working groups for sexual and ethnic minorities and women and have worked with suppliers and clients to develop their own diversity strategy.

"We are known as a firm where there are no barriers to joining us or to career progression if you have talent and deliver the goods," Jonathan Bond, HR director at Pinsent Masons told More Than Business news.

"This clear message, backed up by our action on issues of diversity, has helped us recruit and retain a diverse range of people, both lawyers and support staff."

Ingredient supplier Beacon Foods says it has also reaped the benefits of embracing diversity in the workplace.

"Our business is located in a rural area with no unemployment, and therefore we need to be as flexible as we can be to fully staff our organisation," said HR director Linda Lloyd. "In reality this means all applications and promotions are considered on merit regardless of age, sex, race etc."

"We believe our success is directly related to our flexible, hardworking workforce, who happen to be very diverse. It makes work more interesting for everyone," she added.