Landmark research into the barriers Bangladeshi and Pakistani women face getting into work was launched at an event at the Adult College, Ripple Road on Thursday (25 September).
The event was attended by council Cabinet Members as well as Debbie Weekes-Bernard, Deputy Mayor of London for Communities and Social Justice, and Howard Dawber Deputy Mayor of London for Business.
The event featured roundtable discussions between local employers, the Deputy Mayors and members of the public looking at how obstacles to work can be addressed and eliminated.
The research was commissioned by the Mayor of London’s Workforce Integration Network (WIN) and carried out by the National Institute for Economic and Social Research with support from community researchers, Barking and Dagenham Council, other London local authorities and voluntary and community organisations. It sets out new policies for employers, local authorities and national government that could help these excluded groups find access to better employment opportunities.
This research will also inform the Mayor’s forthcoming Inclusive Talent Strategy, which aims to support Londoners who face barriers to work to get quality jobs and help employers to build a skilled, diverse workforce that drives inclusive economic growth across the city.
Cllr Saima Ashraf, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Community Leadership and Engagement, said: “I’m delighted that Barking and Dagenham has played a crucial role in supporting this landmark research.
“For too long women of Bangladeshi and Pakistani origin have faced difficulties finding good employment, so research like this is vital to us taking a London-wide approach to addressing it.”
Deputy Mayor for Communities and Social Justice, Dr Debbie Weekes-Bernard, said: “London is one of the most diverse cities in the world but shockingly too many Londoners experience huge barriers when trying to find secure, well-paid jobs.
“This research highlights the obstacles facing Bangladeshi and Pakistani women, and outlines how prejudice, discrimination and a lack of support severely limits their chances to succeed.
“We all have a role to play if we are to reduce this inequality, and from City Hall we’re working with communities, businesses and local leaders to help remove everyday barriers, including through the Workforce Integration Network and the London Anchor Institutions’ Network to build inclusive workplaces and improve access to good jobs.
“Only by listening to the experiences of Londoners can we build a more inclusive city, where everyone has the chance to succeed.”
Read the research here.