IIP found wanting for minority groups
The effectiveness of the nationally recognised Investors in People (IIP) standard in providing people from minority groups with the work-based training they need has been called into question in a research report from the Nottingham University Business School.
The report drew on data from close to 15,000 individuals, 46% of whom were in IIP-accredited organisations. It showed that accreditation had failed to improve training levels for many groups, including women, people from ethnic minorities, temporary and fixed-term employees, older workers and people with disabilities.
According to the report's author, Professor Kim Hoque, the findings fly in the face of Government efforts to encourage equal opportunities in the workplace through an employee development 'indicator' that businesses with IIP are required to complete. According to the research, large numbers of businesses are failing to do so.
"It does raise questions as to how organisations are able to secure recognition despite failing to adhere to one of IIP's key requirements," the Professor comments.
In addition, the study found no evidence of increased training in IiP-registered businesses for workers classified as 'routine unskilled', meaning that the standard may be contributing little to the Government drive to increase the proportion of adult workers qualified to NVQ Level 2.
Properly implemented IIP can provide businesses with an important framework for planning and delivering their employee development programmes. It can also help them meet their responsibilities for ensuring equal opportunities in every aspect of their organisation, including training.
Visit www.investorsinpeople.co.uk if you need to find out more about your responsibilities in this area.
For further advise contact Bethan Southcombe on 0117 9290451 or email employment@metcalfes.co.uk.
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Judith Ellery Head of Employment
Bethan Southcombe Solicitor
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