Tough action needed to close disability and race pay gaps, says TUC

Commenting on a report on the disability and race pay gaps published by the Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC) today (Thursday), TUC General Secretary Frances O’Grady said:  

“TUC research found that disabled workers earn a whopping £2,730 a year less than their non-disabled peers, and we also know that significant pay gaps persist for black workers. So it’s good to see the EHRC recommending tough action.  

“New rules to make bosses reveal gender pay gaps have helped to shine a light on the problem. A similar move to require employers to publish their disability and race pay gaps – along with the actions they will take to close them – would be a step in the right direction. As well as guidance for employers to ensure they are consistent in how they measure and report their pay gaps."

However, the TUC would like to see the government and employers go further to address these inequalities:

• A day one right to request flexible working.
• Employers working with unions and disabled and BAME people on how to address the pay gap in their workplaces.
• Employers working with unions to ensure all staff who raise concerns about racism or discrimination at work feel confident their complaints will be taken seriously and acted upon; and to establish positive action measures to address inequalities.