More than a third of human resources decision-makers in the United Kingdom have reported encountering opposition to equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) initiatives over the past year. This finding comes from a new YouGov poll, commissioned by the national employment charity Working Chance, which surveyed 565 HR professionals across the UK.
The research indicates that 36 per cent of HR leaders have faced pushback against their EDI programmes. Working Chance, which focuses on supporting women with criminal convictions into employment, warns that this resistance is having a tangible impact on the hiring opportunities available to individuals with convictions.
The charity has consistently advocated for inclusive employment practices, particularly for women who have served sentences. They argue that excluding individuals with convictions from the workforce not only limits opportunities for rehabilitation but also deprives employers of a valuable talent pool. The findings suggest that despite growing awareness of EDI principles, practical implementation can still face significant hurdles within organisations.
While the study highlights a general trend of resistance to EDI, Working Chance specifically points to the detrimental effect on people with convictions, who already face considerable barriers to employment. The charity's work underscores the importance of challenging stereotypes and fostering environments where individuals with past convictions can secure meaningful work and contribute positively to society.