Are you an equal employer?

Jun 26 2007 By The Journal

Equality North East is pleased to announce the launch of the 2007 North East Equality Awards. Once again, it is looking for those organisations and individuals throughout the region who strive to ensure that good equality and diversity practices are implemented in the workplace.

Recent research has shown that 56% of customers, across all sectors, would be more likely to use a business they knew to have a diverse workforce with 79% thinking it is important for businesses to have equal opportunities policies in place. So, to be publicly recognised and rewarded as such an organisation can only bring positive publicity, enhanced reputation and image and real business benefits.

Previous winners and shortlisted applicants are excellent examples of how good practices can lead to increased chances of winning contracts, improved staff retention rates and a greater chance of finding the right people to do the job.

The first Equality Award Scheme was piloted in 2004 in Tyne & Wear. Equality North East is proud at how quickly this has become a prestigious annual event which now covers the whole of the region.

• For further information regarding the North East Equality Awards, including sponsorship opportunities, the award categories and the nomination and application process, please contact Helen Fletcher on (0191) 495 6262 or via email at helen@equality-ne.co.uk  or visit www.equality-ne.co.uk/awards