In recognition of Mental Health Awareness Week, we are delighted to launch a new and unique piece of research produced in partnership with the NHS approved mental health app Thrive. The research undertaken explores the correlation between perceived levels of inclusion within the workplace and overall mental health. This report provides analysis from an in-depth survey within the HTL and Retail sectors and gives practical advice to ensure that organisations can best manage the wellbeing of their teams.

We have also produced a podcast on the same topic hosted by WiHTL/DiR Director Joanna Auñon and introducing guests Andres Fonseca, CEO & Co-Founder of Thrive and Kerri Bailey, a Research Scientist for Thrive. Their conversation focuses on the results of this survey and how it makes business sense to focus on inclusive practices.

Download the report here

Listen to the podcast here

Produced in partnership with The MBS Group, the Role Models for Inclusion in Retail Index 2022 shines the light on a group of inspirational people who have been independently identified as having made significant impact to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace within retail.

The role models featured in this Index work across the broad reaches of the retail sector and have made it their priority to advocate positive change and to commit to robust diverse and inclusive practices within their organisations. In leading by example – showing how not only telling how – those included have already initiated and promoted the processes needed to achieve an equitable environment.

At the Index launch in London, Simon Roberts, CEO at Sainsbury’s said: “On behalf of Sainsbury’s I want to offer a huge congratulations to all those who have been featured in the inaugural Role Models for Inclusion in Retail Index. As a founding member of Diversity in Retail, inclusion is something that all of us at Sainsbury’s are incredibly passionate about and this is such a fantastic opportunity to recognise and celebrate these exceptional individuals who are driving change across the industry. The Index reminds us why it’s so important for the retail sector, one of the biggest UK employers, to have collective ambitious aims that allow us to carry the torch, using our platform to be a positive role model to other industries and create a ripple effect through our wider society. Celebrating the trailblazers who are doing such amazing work across the retail industry goes a long way in driving long-lasting and widespread movement, creating a better, more inclusive future for everyone.”

To download the report

This report, written by Tracey Groves (CEO Intelligent Ethics and Partner Stoneturn), summarises the key points which were raised during a DiR webinar last year based on the importance of social mobility. It aims to provide our community with greater understanding of this topic through references to current thought leadership, a case study and highlighting leading research in this area.

With contributions from André Flemmings (WHSmith), Donna Catley (Compass) and Justine Greening (Social Mobility Pledge).

Download your copy

Following the success of our Employee Network Groups (ENG) in HTL & Retail Conference at the beginning of February, we are pleased to launch a Toolkit covering the insights, learnings and experiences shared by members of the WiHTL and DiR Collaboration Community during the event, as well as little gems uncovered through one to one conversations, panel discussions, surveys, polls and personal experiences.

If you are thinking of setting up an employee resource group, this Toolkit provides inspiration and guidance. If you have been running one for some time and are looking for more engagement and impact, you will learn from the advice of leaders, ENG chairs and Executive Sponsors that have used these networks successfully to drive meaningful change and deliver value to their members and wider organisation.

Email sarah@diversityinretail.com for your copy (DiR members) or to enquire how to purchase (non-members).

Building on the incredibly important work, and success, of the Hampton-Alexander and Davies Reviews, the first FTSE Women Leaders Review announced 4 new recommendations and highlights progress across the FTSE 350 for Women Leaders.

One such recommendation is for FTSE 350 companies to have at least one woman in the Chair or Senior Independent Director role on the Board, and/or one woman in the Chief Executive or Finance Director role in the company, by the end of 2025.

Download the full report here.

In partnership with PwC, we are delighted to launch a new report exploring research into the current state of the gender pay gap in the Retail sector.

Against the backdrop of the social inequality highlighted during COVID-19 and the delayed gender pay gap deadline of last October, the report highlights the progress made in our sector to close the gender pay gap and analyses the potential impact of the pandemic on inclusion, diversity and fairness as focus areas for employers, employees, customers and investors.

The report also draws upon a number of case studies from across the Retail sector and contains specific recommendations to employers on how to close the gender pay gap.

Download your copy

Read the accompanying press release here.

Best Inclusive Practices in Retail in 2021 has been produced in collaboration with our Founding Members and brings together innovative and inspirational strategies which address how to create more inclusive workplace environments.

Case studies relate to hybrid and flexible working, the formation of ERGs, the implementation of development programmes and training, family-related initiatives and improved methods of communication.

Download your copy of the report

2020 was an unprecedented year. Covid-19 has delivered unchartered challenges for those working in the industry. Although employee resilience has been remarkable, dealing with multiple lockdowns, social distancing, stay-at-home orders, travel and mobility restrictions, and the fear of exposure to the virus has taken its toll on employee wellbeing and mental health.

It has therefore become a top priority for companies to put in place robust wellbeing programmes. To help businesses put such programmes in place, we have compiled a list of toolkits and resources.

Simply email us to request a copy of the toolkit.

Every woman goes through the menopause and yet it still remains a taboo topic. 30% of women we surveyed have considered leaving their job as a result of menopausal symptoms.

In light of the above we produced a white paper in partnership with Executive Health Coach & Menopause Expert, Lauren Chiren from Women at a Certain Stage to share advice, tools and real-life case studies to assist companies to put in place more supportive measures.

Request a copy of the report and our full menopause resource list here.