Today (20 November 2024) is Equal Pay Day in the UK. Sounds like a good thing, right? Unfortunately, it is not the day to celebrate men and women being paid equally and instead is the day when, on average, women effectively stop being paid, compared to men, meaning that they are essentially working for free until the end of the year.
Sadly, this year Equal Pay Fay falls two days earlier than in 2023, showing that the gender pay gap between men and women has increased this year, for the first time since 2013.
It is thought that this is likely to have been caused by more women taking on unpaid caring responsibilities for children and elderly relatives as well as men and women continuing to be paid at different rates whilst undertaking similar roles, despite this being illegal. Only this year we have seen successful legal challenges against Next and Asda for paying their male and female staff differently without justification. In addition, whilst undoubtedly there has been huge progress, women continue to be underrepresented in more senior, higher paid roles.
The Fawcett Society, a charity who campaign for gender equality, say that without a concerted effort, some women won’t see equal pay in their working lifetime. So, what can employers do to help ensure than next year we do not see Equal Pay Day falling even earlier?
Well, firstly it is strongly recommended that employers undertake regular audits of the salary and other payments being made to staff across all levels of the workforce and to address any disparities that may be unearthed. Businesses should also provide clear information to staff about pay structures which can help to attract and retain talent as well as ensure that staff are being paid fairly. Continuing to offer flexible working to staff, where possible, is also essential to help staff balance their caring responsibilities with work. Finally, it remains crucial that employers are actively looking to promote women into leadership roles.
If you would like further advice about Equal Pay Day, gender discrimination or your rights or obligations at work, please contact a member of the Employment Team on 0345 646 0406 or fill in our online enquiry form and someone will be in touch.