Response to consultation on Equality (Race and Disability) Bill, 2025

UNISON response

UNISON supports mandatory ethnicity and disability pay gap reporting to address persistent workplace inequality.

Evidence shows Black and ethnic minority workers face a £3.2 billion annual pay penalty, while disabled workers experience a 17.2–17.25% pay gap (£2.35 per hour) and a 28.4% employment gap. 

Transparent reporting, supported by action plans and union involvement, are essential to identifying the causes of disparities and drive meaningful action to close gaps in pay.

About the consultation

The consultation was intended to gather views on proposals requiring large employers (250+ staff) to report ethnicity and disability pay gaps, with responses helping shape the forthcoming Equality (Race and Disability) Bill. 

Key dates:

• 18 March 2025 – Government announced and launched the consultation in Parliament.

• 18 March 2025 – 10 June 2025 – Period when the consultation was open for responses.