EQUAL PAYERS REWARDED WITH NEW MARK OF EXCELLENCE
(8 March 2002)

Women job seekers will be able to identify employers offering them the best equal pay deal under a new award scheme opened today by Minister for Women, Barbara Roche. Employers were urged to apply for a Castle Award, the new mark of excellence rewarding employers' work in tackling equal pay issues within their organisation.

Forming part of the package of government action to tackle the 18% average difference between men and women's earnings, Barbara Roche also announced an extra £270,000 to identify and spread best practice in advancing women in the work place.

Speaking on International Women's Day, Barbara Roche said: "The pay gap is getting narrower year on year, but this is not solely a matter for government. What is also needed is a cultural change amongst employers so they properly value women's contribution to their organisation's success.

"Women looking for a job want to know their employer will value their skills and experience. And working parents want to know they won't miss out on opportunities at work if, for example, they attend their child's school play.

"The Castle Awards are a mark of excellence that will come to represent the ultimate standard for those committed to equal pay."

The Castle Awards, named after Barbara Castle who introduced the Equal Pay Act in 1970, are open to individual employees as well as employers of all sizes and from all sectors. These new marks of excellence will be presented to successful applicants at an awards ceremony in October.

There are six winners over three categories, as well as awards for those highly commended:

• Individuals who have significantly contributed to promoting equality and equal pay issues
• Organisations who are leaders in promoting equality of opportunity and equal pay issues
• Employers offering sound training opportunities for part time workers.

Speaking in support of the announcement Barbara Castle said: Things have improved a lot since I introduced the equal pay legislation back in 1970 when the difference in the average earnings of men and women was 37%. However the current gender pay gap, 18%, is still intolerable.

"Therefore I welcome this move to further tackle the difference. Rewarding organisations who are committed to treating their whole workforce equally, is a good way of ensuring women are aware of which employers are more likely to give them a fairer deal. It will hopefully inspire others to address issues of inequality in order to retain the skills of talented individuals."

Clara Freeman, Castle Award judge and Chair of Opportunity Now said:"Women make up almost half the workforce, double the number of 25 years ago, and are an essential part of our economy. It makes sound business sense to retain, train and progress women employees."

Employers - do you want to apply?

Applications are open from today with a closing date of June 15th. Employers seeking more information and an application form can log on to http://www.cabinetoffice.gov.uk

Successful applicants will receive their Castle Award at a national awards ceremony in October 2002.

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