Upcoming Events :
Seminar: Outsourcing and Contract Procurement
Tue 28 Feb 2012
Minerva House, 5 Montague Close, London, SE1 9BB
Many City firms 'still discriminate against women'
Wed 07 Jul 2010
Some City organisations may be breaching employment law when dealing with female members of staff and job applicants.
Research by recruitment specialist Poolia found that almost a third of senior women recruiters do not believe females have the same opportunities to progress in their jobs as men.
In addition, half of those polled stated that their career prospects could be harmed if they choose to take their full maternity leave entitlement.
Meanwhile, nearly 20 per cent of senior women recruiters said they believe females are at a disadvantage when they apply for senior management positions.
Sue Kelly, an employment partner at Winckworth Sherwood Solicitors, commented: "Anyone familiar with this sector will not be in the least surprised at these findings.
"Having children is career-limiting in many, if not most, employment sectors.
"The Equality Act does not involve any significant changes in sex discrimination law and in any event, legislation can only play a small role in changing attitudes in society."
Andrew Bath, general manager of Poolia, added that the findings show how many employers in the financial services sector are struggling to balance the needs of women in the workplace.
He urged companies in the City to work harder to make the most of skilled and experienced females, particularly as there is a skills shortage at the moment.
The findings come after the coalition government confirmed that the Equality Act, which contains measures to tackle gender-based discrimination, will begin to be implemented in October this year.
