Director’s update: inclusion, skills and employment

The CBI publishes practical guide outlining firms next steps on the diversity and inclusion journey 

In Time to Advance – a new guide exclusively for members – the CBI helps firms to put their diversity and inclusion ambitions into action. The guide includes case studies from businesses who are advancing their D&I strategies beyond race and gender, with examples of how businesses can implement practices to consider protected characteristics such as disability and age. The guide also includes examples of how firms are shifting the dial towards greater inclusivity in the workplace, as well as case studies explaining how firms can improve social mobility. Contact Poppy Bramford to find out more about the guide.

The CBI wants to hear how your business is addressing labour shortages 

Since COVID-19 lockdowns first began to ease, persistent labour shortages have hampered many firms’ recovery. Government support has been limited, so businesses will be best positioned to meet this challenge by considering every possible response, including investing in recruitment, retention, workplace practices and labour-saving technology. The CBI is creating a new hub to share learnings about tackling shortages. Whether you have a story to share or are keen to hear from others, check out how to get involved. 

Skills Bill: key takeaways from CBI submission 

As part of our ongoing engagement on skills reform, the CBI has submitted evidence to the Public Bill Committee considering the Skills and Post-16 Education Bill. The Bill is a vital opportunity to boost lifelong learning and ensure qualifications and provision remain responsive to the needs of people, firms and the economy. As the Bill progresses to its final stages, we will continue to work towards ensuring businesses sit at the heart of reforms. For more details, contact Aaron Revel. 

ACAS new guidance to help employers adjust to homeworking  

The government announced its latest response to the Omicron variant – Plan B means that office workers must work from home where they can. Read the latest guidance from ACAS.