Discrimination Impacts 1 in 4 Workers

New independent research commissioned by Sky has identified a huge gap in the way that different generations see equal opportunities and inclusion in the workplace, with the bosses of tomorrow set to challenge workplace discrimination and put businesses on the path to inclusion.

Gen Z are almost twice as likely as Boomers to believe a glass ceiling exists and they’re twice as likely to question the status quo on equal opportunities too.

Debbie Klein, Group Chief Marketing and Corporate Affairs Officer – Sky, said: “There’s a new glass ceiling and it has remained unseen, but it seems Gen-Z have better eye-sight – they can see it, and they want to smash it.”

Employers have a duty to ensure their workplace fosters total inclusion, so it’s positive to find the newest members of today’s workforce are challenging barriers and committed to holding employers accountable.

Debbie Klein added: “These results are shocking. It is time to take a hammer to the glass ceiling.”

• 26% of British workers say they have experienced discrimination in the workplace
• Half (49%) of Gen-Z believe their employer should do more to promote and instill inclusion in the workplace, compared with just a quarter (26%) of those over 55
• Gen-z are more comfortable calling discrimination in the workplace, as almost a third (29%) state there is a ‘glass ceiling’ preventing the progression for women and minority groups in their workplace – only one in six (16%) Boomers agree with them
• One in five under 25s also claim being a woman negatively affects the chances of securing a job or promotion – double the amount of over 55s (10%)
• Gen-Z identified multiple groups negatively impacted by an unequal workplace. One in five state being from a Black, Asian or Minority background reduces the chances of getting a job or promotion, compared to one in 10 workers over 55 and half (49%) of Gen-Z also believe the same for a disability, compared to a quarter (27%) of Boomers
• Four out of every five workers in Gen-Z are aware of their company’s inclusion policies, while one in threeworkers over 55 have no idea of what their company’s inclusion policies are
• Those at the start of their careers are also confident embracing these policies, with nearly three-quarters (73%) stating they feel comfortable taking up policies such as flexi-time, carer’s leave, religious leave or support for a disability offered by their employer, , whereas one in three workers nearing retirement age are uncomfortable doing so.

(Source: Sky)