International Women’s Day and the Gender Pay Gap

Although many things seem uncertain at the moment, International Women’s Day isn’t one of them. March the 8th is a time for us to celebrate the many achievements of women worldwide. However, it’s also an opportunity to highlight women's daily challenges in the workplace and society.

We’ve seen progress across the globe during the past few years, but we need to do more. In 2021 the gender pay gap reached 7.9%, up 0.9% from 2020. Interestingly, more than three out of four UK companies pay their male staff more than their female staff. Some reports suggest it will take 202 years to close the pay gap.

International Women’s Day 2022 Theme

Break The Bias

A world free of bias, stereotypes, and discrimination.
A world that is diverse, equitable, and inclusive.
A world where difference is valued and celebrated.
Together we can forge women's equality.
Collectively we can all #BreakTheBias.

The Pandemic’s Effect

The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly increased women's inequality every day. The Fawcett Society found women were more likely to lose work or deal with childcare due to the COVID-19. Additionally, ONS found that in 2021, the UK furloughed more women than men with a loss of pay.

What Companies Can Do on International Women’s Day

Employers must build an environment that values women’s contributions and where we recognise women and they can speak up. There is a new sense of urgency to address the challenges women face. Now more than ever, it is essential to ensure employees have the support they need, whether that’s providing flexibility, equal pay, or supporting wellbeing.

Be you at Bupa

One of Each Person’s clients, a leading health provider, Bupa, prides itself on being a diverse and inclusive employer committed to closing the Gender Pay Gap.

“Here at Bupa, we want to be an organisation where all colleagues thrive, regardless of gender, and are supported to progress their careers.”

David Hynam, CEO, Bupa

Increasing representation across the business at every level remains one of Bupa’s top priorities. They continue to look for new ways to ensure their culture creates a sense of belonging for all their people.

Globally, Bupa has run mentoring schemes to support women in their leadership positions. Moreover, Bupa is continuing to eliminate its gender pay gap. Their latest report uncovers the current gender balance and what they’re doing to increase the number of women in senior roles. 

Here at Each Person, we continually look for ways to make the workplace happier and healthier for everyone. We must do more to help all marginalised groups globally and International Women’s Day is a great place to start.

To find out how Each Person can help create a happier workplace through rewards and recognition, contact us today at j.turton@eachperson.com.