Why are we Running this Campaign? In the UK, there are protected characteristics in the workplace. Discriminating against someone due to such characteristics is an offence under the Equality Act 2010. Protected characteristics include:
Although it is an offence for employers and businesses to discriminate against someone based on one of the reasons listed above, many young people are still concerned about being stigmatised when searching or applying for jobs. Skills Development Scotland recently conducted the Young People’s Career Ambitions (YPCA) 2022/23 study, which analysed the answers of over 1400 young people in Scotland who left school between 2020-2021. This research revealed that 39% of young people from minority ethnic backgrounds and 32% of young people who identify as having a disability were concerned that discrimination may act as a barrier to their future careers. See Me Scotland also revealed harrowing figures relating to discrimination in The Scottish Mental Illness Study (September 2022). According to the UK Government, mental health issues are considered a disability if they have a long-term (12 months or more) effect on someone’s day to day life. See Me’s research revealed that the majority of survey participants have refrained from applying for certain jobs (85%) or promotions (71%) due to the perceived likelihood of discrimination. These figures are unacceptable in this day and age, where there are laws and legislations to prevent such discrimination and stigma in the workplace.
Chair of Developing the Young Workforce; Sandy Begbie, recently published an article in The Scotsman, which highlighted how “recruiting young people from diverse backgrounds is not just a matter of social responsibility; it also makes good economic sense. Embracing diversity can lead to a stronger and more resilient economy while addressing skills shortages and ensuring that businesses are better equipped to thrive in our rapidly changing world.” We are supporting National Inclusion Week by celebrating equality, diversity and inclusion in the workplace, demonstrating there is a job for everybody. How to get Involved You can get involved by sharing your stories and experiences relating to diversity and inclusion in the workplace, on Tuesday 26th September, via X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram. If you are an employer: ask relevant employees if they wish to be involved in the campaign to celebrate their achievements, raise awareness and set a positive example for young people, parent/carers and other employers. You can also reflect on ways in which your business or organisation is helping to end discrimination and encourage equality and diversity in the workplace through reasonable adjustments, support and/or programmes which help people with protected characteristics enter employment. Alternatively, you can post current opportunities within your organisation, encouraging young people with protected characteristics to apply. On 26th September, post your images, videos, or written articles with the hashtag #AJobForEverybody. Make sure you use the hashtag and mention @dywscot to ensure the campaign reaches as many people as possible. If you need any advice or assistance in creating content, or if you have any questions, please contact your local regional group. If you are an individual: share your positive experiences in the workplace (whether you work for a company, or for yourself). Positive experiences can include your achievements or support you have received from colleagues, managers or even clients and customers. Sharing your story can set a positive example and provide hope to young people with protected characteristics, their parent/carers and employers. You can share your stories and experiences in whichever format is best for you, whether that’s a photo or image, a short video or reel, and/or written text. If you have any questions or would like advice or assistance in creating content, contact your local regional group. 2022 Campaign Highlights If you need some inspiration for this year’s #AJobForEverybody campaign, take a look at some of last year’s content:
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