How Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Drives Productivity and Innovation

A new EY report highlights how diversity, equity, and inclusion (DE&I) drive productivity, innovation, and long-term success for UK businesses. Companies that prioritise DE&I are better positioned to attract and retain talent while creating a more inclusive workplace.

The Business Case for DE&I

Developed with 11 leading diversity campaign groups, the report identifies key DE&I strategies that improve workplace equity across gender, ethnicity, disability, LGBTQ+ identities and socio-economic backgrounds.

Creating an Inclusive Culture

For DE&I to be effective, leaders must:

• Assess workplace culture and employee experiences
• Train managers on inclusive behaviours
• Build confidence in discussing and addressing DE&I topics

Anna Anthony, EY’s UK & Ireland Regional Managing Partner, emphasised:

“Diversity, equity and inclusion are critical drivers of innovation, productivity, and economic growth. By valuing differences and amplifying underrepresented voices, we create a UK business environment where creativity flourishes, individuals thrive, and everyone benefits.”

A Strategic Approach to DE&I

The report recommends four focus areas:

• Measurement – Use data-driven approaches to track progress.
• Recruitment – Implement targeted hiring strategies.
• Retention – Offer flexible work arrangements.
• Progression – Provide mentorship and sponsorship opportunities.

Sir Trevor Phillips, Chair of Change the Race Ratio, reinforced the need for action:

“The fact that DE&I is being questioned means we should do more - and do better. Workforces and customers are more diverse than ever. We must refine approaches, drop what fails, and double down on strategies that drive success.”

Supporting Businesses with Strategic DE&I Training

At InPD, we help organisations turn DE&I goals into action with our Strategic Approaches to Diversity, Equity and Inclusion – CMI Level 7 programme. This course equips leaders with:

• Knowledge of legal frameworks and unconscious bias
• Skills to challenge non-inclusive behaviour
• Strategies to move from equality to equity
• Tools to analyse organisational data for DE&I priorities

Moving Forward

The message is clear: DE&I isn’t a box-ticking exercise - it’s a business imperative. Companies that invest in inclusive policies, support diverse talent, and track progress will see real benefits, from higher employee satisfaction to increased innovation.

For those ready to lead the way, our Strategic Approaches to Diversity, Equity and Inclusion – CMI Level 7 provides the tools to drive meaningful change.

Find out more here - Strategic Approaches to Diversity, Equity and Inclusion – CMI Level 7