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Scottish Government launches equality fund to make Scottish workplaces more inclusive and diverse


By Ewan Malcolm

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THE Scottish Government has launched a two-year equality fund to make Scottish workplaces more inclusive and diverse.

MSP Richard Lochhead has encouraged eligibile businesses to apply for funding.
MSP Richard Lochhead has encouraged eligibile businesses to apply for funding.

The initiative will see £800,000 made available in its first year. It aims to address longstanding barriers in the labour market so that everyone – irrespective of gender, age, race, or disability - can fulfil their potential and improve Scotland's economic performance as a result.

Charities, third sector organisations, public sector organisations and private sector businesses can apply for up to £75,000 in each year of the fund to carry out activities that will help to improve diversity in the workplace.

Moray MSP Richard Lochhead, Minister for Just Transition, Employment and Fair Work, said: "Employment rates, pay gaps, occupational segregation, workplace discrimination and progression opportunities within the labour market vary significantly across Scotland.

"The Scottish Government is committed to inclusive economic growth and helping employers develop their workplace practices to address inequality is key to the Workplace Equality Fund.

"Promoting growth in employment opportunities and tackling inequality within the labour market is essential to the sustained, long-term prosperity of the Scottish economy.

"We encourage private, public and third sector organisations to apply for funding through the Workplace Equality Fund."

The Workplace Equality Fund was first launched by First Minister Nicola Sturgeon in 2018.

Last year, funds offered immediate support during the pandemic to ensure that efforts to promote and embed workplace equality could continue so that equality groups were not further disadvantaged by the economic impact of Covid-19.

Applications are open until April 11, 2022.

Organisations and businesses that wish to apply for funding should visit here.


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