Mike Barnard, 28 February 2007

Women are still facing an uphill struggle at work due to discrimination, according to a dramatic new study.

The final report of The Equalities Review, released today, reveals that a partnered mother with a child aged under 11 is 45% less likely to be in work than a man who has a partner. It also suggests that women with young children face more discrimination in the workplace than disabled people or those from ethnic minorities, and that other disadvantaged groups are Pakistani and Bangladeshi women.

The Equalities Review Panel chaired by Trevor Phillips proposes a ten-step programme to help make Britain a fairer, more equal country at ease with its diversity.

It warns that unless efforts are drastically stepped up, it could take until 2085 to close the pay gap between men and women; until 2045 for Black Caribbean 11 year olds to close the attainment gap in English and Maths; and on current trends the employment penalty facing disabled people may never be eliminated.

Mr Phillips said: “If we do not create a new framework to tackle existing, entrenched and emerging inequalities we risk losing the momentum built up by three generations.

"The last few years have seen inequality reduced in many ways. But as the tide of disadvantage recedes, the rocks of persistent inequality have been revealed. People face inequality in many forms - not only on the grounds of race, gender or disability but also sexual orientation, age, gender identity, and religion or belief. They struggle because of outdated attitudes and systemic failures. It will take many years to remove the remaining barriers to equality. In some cases, unless we accelerate progress, it is unlikely that disadvantage will ever be overcome. We have to act now."

What is your experience of discrimination in the workplace? Please take a moment to complete the Milkround poll: Click here to take part!