Voluntary framework on gender pay parity launched

Home Secretary Theresa May has launched a voluntary framework on gender equality reporting.

Home Secretary Theresa May has launched a voluntary framework on gender equality reporting.

The new Think, Act, Report framework aims to address the pay gap between men and women, which stands at 20 per cent across all employees in the UK and to change business practices and culture to enable women to reach the highest levels of their chosen profession.  It is a voluntary framework that encourages companies to identify gender equality in the workforce or in pay structures, then take action and report on progress.

Speaking at the launch at Eversheds HQ, May said: “Promoting equality of opportunity and equal treatment isn’t just the right thing to do. It’s also crucial to promoting growth."

Eversheds, BT and Tesco have signed up to the voluntary reporting scheme and will publish equality data on their staffing on their websites, in some cases including full pay audits. 

At the launch, Eversheds chairman John Heaps hosted a panel comprising Theresa May, CBI policy director Katja Hall, Tesco HR director Judith Nelson and BT Group director of people and policy Caroline Waters.

May said: “I believe real and lasting change will not happen through Government dictating how businesses should be run, by passing a new law or by preaching to business. Change will only come when businesses themselves realise the benefits."

Employers wanting to sign up to the framework can follow an easy guide, which includes measures on pay, workforce composition, promotion, maternity leave and flexible working.

For more information on the framework, go to http://www.homeoffice.gov.uk/equalities/women/women-work/gender-equality-reporting/

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