A new study has revealed that more than a third of HR decision-makers in the UK have encountered resistance to equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) initiatives over the past year. The research, conducted by YouGov for the national employment charity Working Chance, surveyed 565 HR leaders and found that opposition to such schemes is on the rise.
Impact on People with Convictions
The findings have raised concerns about the effect on individuals with criminal convictions, who often depend on inclusive hiring practices to secure employment. Working Chance, which supports women with convictions into jobs, warned that scaling back inclusive hiring could entrench social exclusion and undermine efforts to reduce reoffending. Evidence consistently shows that stable employment is one of the most effective ways to prevent people from returning to the criminal justice system.
Broader Context of Inclusion Schemes
Last December, a Guardian analysis found that the UK’s largest businesses were reducing their public support for Pride celebrations. Another Guardian investigation revealed that only a third of recommendations from major reports on systemic racism over the past 40 years had been implemented. Natasha Finlayson, chief executive of Working Chance, said: “If this trend continues, access to work is likely to become increasingly difficult for people who already face significant barriers to employment, including those with criminal convictions.”
The findings come amid growing legal and political pressure on targeted inclusion schemes. A charity that organises internships for Black and minority ethnic candidates has been taken to court by an influencer for not offering equivalent schemes for white applicants. Employers and charities fear that copycat cases could follow, with some already withdrawing support from such initiatives.
Ministry of Justice Conference
The research was published ahead of a conference at the Ministry of Justice this week, bringing together HR leaders, employers, and inclusion specialists to address a “confidence gap” among employers. MoJ evidence shows that employment is the strongest protective factor against reoffending, which costs the UK economy an estimated £18 billion to £23 billion annually. The conference will examine concerns around risk, disclosure, DBS checks, and workplace integration, with organisers noting that misconceptions and lack of guidance remain major barriers.
Scale of Criminal Records
The government estimates that about one in four working-age adults have some form of criminal record, a broad measure that includes cautions and minor offences, some of which may be disclosed in background checks. Campaigners calling for changes to the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) have long argued that it casts too wide a net. Working Chance’s latest data shows that despite the prevalence of criminal records, more than half (58%) of HR leaders do not feel confident recruiting and supporting people with convictions.
Finlayson added: “When done well, inclusive hiring is not only good for individuals and their families, but also for businesses, communities and the economy.”
Personal Story
Rayhana, who did not wish to give her surname, described the effect of Working Chance’s support as like being reborn. “I applied for and was provisionally offered five jobs, all of which were taken away the moment the DBS certificate came back and the employer found out about my conviction,” she said. “It felt like I didn’t exist. Like society wanted to pretend that I didn’t exist.” She said her conviction came during a period of poor mental health after losing her job, and she was determined to rebuild her life. “I don’t want to shrink any more, I want to be a force for good.” She added: “Working Chance supported me to get my current job two years ago, and the impact of having this job is gamechanging. It feels like a rebirth to be able to rebuild my identity. Now I’m working I have the tools to take responsibility and I won’t go back to my old life.”
Government Response
A Ministry of Justice spokesperson said: “Employment is key in reducing reoffending, which costs the UK economy billions every year. Evidence consistently shows that businesses who employ people with convictions benefit from a loyal, skilled and committed workforce. Supporting access to work not only helps individuals to rebuild their lives, but also delivers wider benefits for businesses, communities and the economy as a whole.”
