The UK has faced many obstacles over the last year. Working from home is arguably one of the more significant changes we have endured. Although this may have been a difficult challenge to overcome, WFH may have had a positive impact on workplace inclusivity.
It has been hard to ignore the calls for changes to diversity and inclusivity, and many companies are doing the right thing by standing with them. So how does working from home increase workplace inclusivity?
LGBTQ+ Allyship
More than ? of LGBTQ+ staff in the UK hide their identity for fear of discrimination. As a result, the staff becomes shy, reserved, and unable to comfortably perform their daily tasks. Furthermore, 1 in 5 trans people does not feel able to wear work attire that matches their gender expression.
When working from home, staff no longer need to wear a uniform or interact with multiple people creating a higher sense of safety and workplace inclusivity. Following this, LGBTQ+ members may feel more comfortable disclosing their identity with closer members of their team online.
No Commute
Secondly, working from home eradicates the daily commute to and from work. No commute means work is more accessible for those with a disability. On top of this, many workplaces may not have enough dedicated support for those in need, so working from home gives staff the ability to be where their support is.
Remote working offers a new way of working and breaks down the barriers disable and chronically ill individuals may face in their day-to-day work lives. The lack of these barriers opens up people's ability to apply for jobs anywhere, increasing workplace inclusivity.
Flexibility
A massive impact on workplace inclusivity is the flexibility that WFH brings. Remote working can offer new schedules, lower travel time, and other perks at work for flexibility. As a result of this, caregivers can work around their responsibilities. Also, those who suffer from poor mental health may feel less restricted and scared.
New flexibility to work can allow further opportunities for a broader range of individuals opening up the possibility for higher levels of workplace inclusivity.
How are other companies increasing workplace inclusivity?
Regardless of the automatic rewards from WFH, companies should still work towards better levels of workplace inclusivity through initiatives and innovation.
Invitae, in the US, has launched several remote-friendly support groups, including Women in Tech, Latinx, and Pride (Rainbow Connections). These support groups help staff to create a good work-life balance and feel supported.
At Each Person, we offer amazing rewards and recognition which can help alleviate discrimination within the workplace. By bringing people together and avoiding excluding individuals, workplace inclusivity can be achieved. For example, sending employee vouchers can help those with financial trouble. A successful employee of the month scheme can be created within an inclusive environment.
With 70% of individuals looking to join a diverse team gives even more of a reason to support workplace inclusivity. Attracting the best talent is vital to a company's success as a whole.
Working from home has challenged the UK to rethink its way of working. Workplace inclusivity has been positively impacted by this challenging environment. However, there is still room for improvement and further change.
To find out more on how Each Person can help build workplace inclusivity, visit us at eachperson.com and follow us on social media today!
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