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Accelerate Action: Achieving Gender Equality in the Social Sector

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Picture of Alison Smith
Alison Smith
CEO, Director and Lead Consultant
  • Date Article Posted: March 3, 2025
People & Equality Wellbeing

As we celebrate International Women’s Day 2025, we are reminded of the urgent need to take decisive action to achieve gender equality. The theme for this year, #AccelerateAction, highlights the stark reality that at the current rate of progress, it will take until 2158 to reach full gender parity.  

 

Why does gender equality matter? 

Gender equality is not just a moral imperative; it is also essential for the success and sustainability of our organisations.  

Research shows that diverse teams are more innovative, make better decisions, and achieve better financial performance. In the social sector, where the mission of our organisations are to create positive social change, it is crucial that we lead by example and ensure that our workplaces are inclusive and equitable. 

 

What steps can you take to create gender equality within your organisation? 

1. Conduct a Gender Audit 

  • Understand the current state of gender equality in your organisation. This could include looking at the demographics of your workforce and / or reviewing your policies and practices for bias. This can give you a prioritised plan for action. 

 

2. Implement Inclusive Recruitment Practices 

  • Ensure that your recruitment processes are free from bias. Use gender-neutral language in job descriptions, advertise roles in diverse forums, and consider anonymising shortlisting. 

 

3. Promote Flexible Working Arrangements 

  • Offer flexible working options such as remote work, flexible hours, and job sharing. This can help to accommodate the diverse needs of your workforce and support work-life balance. 

 

4. Provide Training and Development Opportunities 

  • Invest in the professional development of your workforce. Where possible offer leadership training, mentorship programs, and opportunities for career advancement.

 

5. Establish Clear Policies and Reporting Mechanisms 

  • Develop and implement policies and practices to promote equality and address issues such as harassment and discrimination. Ensure that there are clear reporting mechanisms in place for employees to raise concerns. 

 

What impact can be created by having gender equality within the workforce? 

By taking these steps, social sector employers can create a more inclusive and equitable workplace. The benefits are numerous:

 

  • Improved Employee Satisfaction and Retention: Employees are more likely to stay with an organisation that values and supports them. 

 

  • Enhanced Reputation: Organisations that are known for their commitment to equality are more attractive to potential employees, partners, and funders.

 

  • Increased Innovation and Performance: Diverse teams bring different perspectives and ideas, leading to more innovative solutions and better organisational performance. 

 

This International Women’s Day, commit to accelerating action towards gender equality. Small steps can lead to significant change. By implementing these strategies, you can make a real difference and move closer to achieving gender parity.  

Let’s not wait until 2158—let’s take action now!  

#AccelerateAction #IWD2025 #GenderEquality 

 

Need support? 

Contact us if you want to discuss equality and diversity within your organisation or have any queries about implementing the steps set out within this blog.  

People & Equality Wellbeing

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