How do you define someone as coming from one of the Black and minority ethnic communities?
The Office of National Statistics (http://www.statistics.gov.uk/) provides the ethnic classification used in the census. The Equality and Human Rights Commission recommends that this classification, or one closely modelled on it, is used by employers.
Does an employer have to establish that they have under-representation of Black and minority ethnic groups first, before they can apply to join Encompass?
Yes – it is the law that under-representation of a minority group within the workforce has to be shown before such a scheme can be implemented.
Does an employer have to differentiate between different ethnic groups in determining the under-representation?
Yes – under-representation has to be shown for individual minority groups. Where a broader term is used (e.g. Black or Asian), the employer must be clear which ethnic groups are included and that the under-representation can be shown for each group.
Should an employer consult its unions about the proposed traineeship?
If an organization has a good relationship with the unions it’s always good to discuss the scheme, but it isn’t a requirement.