Diversity in Social Enterprise

"I think we could do better in relation to BAME and young people"

"There is a lack of ethnic diversity, a real lack of class diversity, where those starting up a social enterprise are expected to self finance at the beginning. It is not always a welcoming environment to LGBT people"

"I think that boards and social enterprises are often full of straight white men. The sector needs to be more broad minded about how to recruit diversity."

"Disabled people are under represented."

"The leadership of many of the high profile social enterprises and membership bodies is predominantly white and male. There wasn't much of a response from the sector to Black Lives Matter, which could mean many organisations either don't know what to say or don't think it's relevant to them. Either way, it doesn't seem like there is much action."

"Executive and board leadership looks very different from those delivering social enterprises on the ground."

"Social Enterprises in Scotland are so white and the biggest challenge is when they dilute diversity by using terms such as diversity of thought which makes the issue worse."

"Much diversity even when well intentioned is often one dimensional with little if any focus on intersectionality. Eg disability or race) ethnicity, rarely both"

"My experience has been positive, but I wouldn't say that the support/interest in diversity has been that intentional until recently"

"I have heard many misogynistic and racist comments in the sector from people who should be more supportive. The support agencies also do not reflect or promote Diversity"

"I am and employee of a social enterprise and board member on another. Both organisations have policies that support diversity and inclusion."

"The support for organisations from BAME Communities is hardly available."

"Our board includes older people, young people and people with disabilities."