Employers have recognised that diversity and inclusivity in the workplace will help them weather the recession.

Almost three-quarters of organisations (74%) surveyed by Opportunity Now found a link between their internal diversity strategies and employee engagement while 40% report improved customer service because of diversity initiatives, Almost a quarter (22%) think diversity has helped them increase their market share.

More than two-thirds of employers (69%) have conducted an equal pay audit, 44% intend to train mangers on equal pay issues and almost a quarter (22%) are already publishing their pay gap data in the public domain.

Diversity is also growing as an issue in boardrooms, with 55% making board members directly accountable for delivering gender objectives. Some 96% of business leaders claim they champion diversity.

Sarah Williams-Gardener, director of Opportunity Now, said: "Creating diverse and inclusive workplaces is about engaging with employees and ensuring they know they matter as individuals.

"It is about guaranteeing as an organisation you can tap into the highest calibre of talent, gain fresh perspectives and innovate. In times of hardship, engaging and motivating your employees is key if you want to drive business and ultimately succeed."