20 February 2019

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New BBC analysis today showing that four in 10 private companies that have reported their gender pay gaps so far have wider gaps than last year.

The Fawcett Society Chief Executive Sam Smethers said:

“As we approach the deadline for year 2 of gender pay gap reporting the pressure is on for employers to demonstrate progress in closing their pay gaps, but initial findings look worrying with 40% of those who have already reported showing pay gaps widening not narrowing. Women will be wondering what is going on.

“But the reality is this is a marathon not a sprint. It will take a 5 year strategy with a focussed action plan to produce results, combined with a tougher reporting regime. We need to require employers to publish action plans that we can hold them accountable to.  We also need to address all the causes of the pay gap, provide real transparency with pay data so that women can challenge pay discrimination; more generous leave for dads that they can afford to take and make every job a flexible working job unless there is a business reason not to.”

Read more about our campaigning to close the gender pay gap here.