Workforce and Supplier Diversity in SMEs: an Invitation to Participate
28th July 2009
The Project
The Small Business Research Centre at Kingston University has been commissioned by the London Development Agency (LDA) to undertake a study of SMEs that are engaged in good workforce and supplier diversity practices. The aim is to produce case studies of good practice that will be posted on the website of Diversity Works for London (DWfL) (http://www.diversityworksforlondon.com/). DWfL is an initiative of the LDA aiming to help businesses to harness the benefits of a diverse workforce and supplier base. Participation in the project involves one of the research team arranging to interview the CEO or a representative of senior management in the firm to gather data and allowing an approved summary to be posted on the DWfL Website.
Benefits to Participating Businesses
Businesses that participate will benefit from the free publicity associated with having their diversity profile promoted through the DWfL Website
Potential Case Studies
We are looking for SME case studies to demonstrate good practice with respect one or more of the following diversity strands:
- age
- disability
- ethnicity
- gender
- religion and beliefs
- sexual orientation
In addition, the case studies will address all six areas of the Diversity Works for London (DWfL) Gold Standard, namely:
- gaining buy-in;
- recruitment;
- promotion and development;
- managing a diverse workforce;
- promoting a productive and harmonious workplace;
- running a diverse business;
- monitoring and review.
To Obtain Further Information
SMEs in London that are engaged in good practice with respect to diversity are invited to contact Professor David Smallbone (020 8547 7218/07786 096912; Email: d.smallbone@kingston.ac.uk) or Dr John Kitching (0208 417 5355; email: j.kitching@kingston.ac.uk) at Kingston University.
