Although many things seem uncertain at the moment, International Women’s Day isn’t one of them. March the 8th is a time for us to celebrate the many achievements of women worldwide. However, it’s also an opportunity to highlight women’s daily challenges in the workplace and society.
We’ve seen progress across the globe during the past few years, but there is still more to be done. In 2021 the gender pay gap reached 7.9%, up 0.9% from 2020. Interestingly, more than three out of four UK companies pay their male staff more than their female staff. Some reports suggest it will take 202 years to close the pay gap and 51% of women in the UK state equal pay as the most significant issue in the workplace.
International Women’s Day 2022 Theme
Break The Bias
A world free of bias, stereotypes, and discrimination.
A world that is diverse, equitable, and inclusive.
A world where difference is valued and celebrated.
Together we can forge women’s equality.
Collectively we can all #BreakTheBias.
The Pandemic’s Effect
The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly increased women’s inequality every day. The Fawcett Society found women were more likely than men to lose work or be burdened with childcare due to the COVID-19 crisis, and despite women accounting for 71% of the UK’s front line workers, women’s wages remain 11% lower than men.
Additionally, ONS found that in 2021, more women than men were furloughed with a loss of pay.
What Companies Can Do on International Women’s Day
Employers and businesses must build an environment that values women’s contributions and where women can speak up and be recognised. There is a new sense of urgency to address the challenges women face. Now more than ever, it is essential to ensure employees have the support they need in the workplace, whether that’s in providing flexible working, closing the gender pay gap, or supporting your team’s wellbeing.
Be you at Bupa
One of Each Person’s clients, a leading health provider, Bupa, prides itself on being a diverse and inclusive employer committed to closing the Gender Pay Gap.
“At Bupa, we’re committed to creating an inclusive workplace where everyone is welcome. Our ‘Be you at Bupa’ scheme approaches and underpins this, empowering all our people to feel confident to bring their whole selves to work. […] Here at Bupa, we want to be an organisation where all colleagues thrive, regardless of gender, and are supported to progress their careers.”
David Hynam
CEO, Bupa Global & UK
Increasing representation across the business at every level remains one of Bupa’s top priorities. They continue to look for new ways to ensure their culture creates a sense of belonging for all their people.
Globally, Bupa has run mentoring schemes to support women in their leadership positions and provide networks to connect and share knowledge. Moreover, Bupa is continuing to eliminate its gender pay gap. Their latest report uncovers their current gender balance and what they’re doing to increase the number of women in senior roles.
Here at Each Person, we continually look for ways to make the workplace happier and healthier for everyone. We must do more to help all marginalised groups globally and International Women’s Day is a great place to start.
To find out how Each Person can help create a happier workplace through rewards and recognition, contact us today at [email protected].