Supporting Diversity
In this guide, you'll find advice on researching employers, finding opportunities, and accessing support as a PGM (people of global majority) student or graduate.
Race and ethnicity in the workplace
Legally, employers cannot discriminate against job candidates or employees based on race or ethnicity. Many employers are taking steps to make recruitment more inclusive and improve diversity in their workforce.
Some organisations use blind recruitment, removing personal details like names from applications to reduce unconscious bias. Others implement positive action measures, such as internships or mentoring schemes, to support candidates from underrepresented backgrounds.
Learn more about positive action measures
What to look for when researching jobs and employers
Researching potential employers can help you find organisations committed to diversity and inclusion. Look for:
-
A diversity and inclusion statement on their website
-
Employee networks or mentoring schemes for racially and ethnically diverse staff
-
Case studies or testimonials from employees about workplace culture
-
Diversity reports or data on representation within the company
-
Schemes or partnerships designed to attract diverse talent
You can find more advice about researching employers through our online guide.
What to tell employers
You do not have to disclose your race or ethnicity when applying for jobs. According to the Institute of Employers’ Black Careers Matter report (2021), applicants from ethnic minorities send 60% more applications to receive the same number of interview offers as White candidates. This highlights why more employers are working to make recruitment fairer and more inclusive.
However, if you feel comfortable, you can highlight skills and experiences that come from your background, such as:
-
Multicultural awareness and the ability to work in diverse teams
-
Language skills
-
Leadership roles in cultural or community groups
Where to find opportunities
Here are some initiatives aimed at racially and ethnically diverse students and graduates
Opportunities by sector
Below is information on schemes and initiatives based on your chosen sector.
- Blueprint for all - The Building Futures Programme is for those considering a career in architecture, are already studying or are working in the profession.
- Black Fundraisers UK - An organisation which connects fundraisers from Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic communities and offers support.
- Charityworks Fast Track - Designed to give Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic applicants a development experience to prepare them to launch a career in the non-profit sector.
- Sewport - A fashion design scholarship for Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic students.
- KPMG - Multiple insight opportunities for Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic students in finance and engineering.
- Bank of England - Offering experiences for students of any background, and a scholarship for students of Black or African-Caribbean background.
- Historic England - Placement opportunities across a variety of heritage organisations for Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic applicants.
- Windsor Fellowship - Heritage Fund Graduate Traineeship Programme.
- Law Society - Supporting aspiring solicitors from diverse backgrounds to begin their career.
- Society of Asian Lawyers - A society providing opportunities, events and support in the legal profession.
- Black Solicitors Network - A society to support and represent black solicitors, and promote equality and diversity.
- BCLP - Organises diversity events and programmes, including an African-Caribbean Recruitment initiative.
- NCTJ - Provides funding for people of diverse backgrounds while they undertake NCTJ journalism training.
- Chartered Society of Physiotherapy - Provides network to represent the interests of BAME members.
- Civil Service Early Diversity Programme - A one week paid insight into the Civil Service and Fast Stream.
- Civil Service Summer Diversity Programme - A 6 to 9 week paid programme which provides insights for students from diverse backgrounds.
- Government Communication Service - A paid internship programme for students or recent graduates from diverse backgrounds.
- MI5 Summer Diversity Intelligence Internship - An 11 week internship for students from a Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic background.
- The Guardian - Placement opportunities for Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic individuals with an interest in journalism.
- HarperCollins Traineeship - A 12 month salaried contract for Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic graduates to experience roles within the publishing sector.
- The Scheme - A 6 month paid traineeship with Penguin Random for individuals from Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic or diverse backgrounds.
Support organisations
Many organisations and networks support PGM students and graduates from different backgrounds:
How the Careers and Employability Service can help
We offer confidential support, including:
-
1-1 career planning advice
-
Exclusive opportunities to our PGM students and alumni including events and projects
-
Information on inclusive employers and job opportunities
-
Links to university support services and PGM Ambassadors
Contact us to discuss how we can support you through careers@port.ac.uk
Explore more in Career Support
CVs and cover letters
Find out how to increase your chances of getting an interview by writing a strong CV and completing a successful application.
Graduate job search guide
Learn about the types of roles you will encounter, and how to search for roles.
Career Appointments
We offer appointments Monday to Friday, 9.30am-4.00pm throughout the year. Booking couldn't be easier - simply tell us your query and we'll set you up with the right people at a time that's convenient to you.
