The region’s largest business organisation has called upon companies to contribute to a national commission which will shape policy recommendations for Government.

The British Chambers of Commerce’s Workplace Equity Commission has opened a call for evidence into equality, diversity, and inclusion best practice in business, as well as any challenges firms are facing, and where support is needed. The commission’s findings will then shape recommendations to help businesses adapt their workplace practices to make it easier for people from diverse talent pools to access jobs and progress in their careers.

John McCabe, North East Chamber of Commerce chief executive, said: “We are encouraging our members to give their thoughts and experiences to ensure that the North East is represented in this commission and to help shape government recommendations. It’s so important for businesses to recognise the value of diverse workplaces. More inclusive business practices will help to break down gender disparity and ensure everyone can unlock their potential.”

The commission will examine workplace equity from several angles including age, disability, race, gender and LGBTQ+, with commissioners include national experts, business leaders and representatives from the Ƶ and international Chamber networks, including Stonewall chair Iain Anderson, Ayesha Hazarika, Women of the World founder and CEO Jude Kelly, and Scope CEO Mark Hodgkinson.

Gill Hunter, managing partner of Square One Law and co-chair of the commission, said: “We are delighted to launch our inquiry into workplace equity. The commissioners all bring unique insight from their different personal and professional backgrounds. We want to hear from anyone who has experience or views on how SMEs can create workplaces that truly create a level playing field for everyone. Personal testimony will help us fully understand how diverse workforces can be recruited and retained.”

Shevaun Haviland, director general of the BCC, added: “To grow our economy, we need to nurture and support the ambition, skills and potential of people in every part of our community. Everyone’s ideas, skills and experience are important to business and the economy, and must not be wasted. We want to help businesses ensure a level playing field in our workplaces where everyone can achieve their potential.”

The commission is part of the organisation’s three-year workplace equity campaign, the inspiration for which came from the findings of the BCC International Women’s Day research, published last March, that surveyed 4,000 people. The North East Chamber of Commerce will be hosting roundtable events and is encouraging members to get in touch.