NAJ identify initial Equality & Diversity actions

04 Aug 2020

Following on from its initial statement, The National Association of Jewellers (NAJ) has in recent weeks been consulting with individuals and businesses as to feelings, experiences and behaviours regarding equality and diversity within the Jewellery Trade. 

Committee representatives have also been closely monitoring events and have absorbed opinions published on and in public platforms within the jewellery community. These actions have in turn helped the NAJ National Committee identify a set of initial immediate actions that can start to address this important issue. 

One of the committee representatives, David Doyle, President of The NAJ said,

“Ongoing dialogue is an important part of bringing about change here. We want to reassure the industry we are in this for as long as it takes to bring about positive change.”

“As the Association’s governing committee we’re determined to make progress in equality and diversity. We recognise that, like others, we have a lot to learn but also recognise that the Association is in a position that can help move things forward, both now and for the jewellery industry of the future.”

 

The NAJ has identified the following actions where they will direct their initial attention: 

1. Participate in and support research activities that help inform the issue of Equality and Diversity in the jewellery industry to inform longer term change.  
2. Improve equality and diversity guidance for members and in the wider industry, such as the Equality & Diversity guidance present in the Association’s Better Business Toolbox.
3. Actively feature a wider demographic of jewellers in NAJ communications, publications and at events.
4. Introduce a scheme delivered by the Federation’s Benevolent Society which specifically focuses on breaking down barriers for BAME individuals entry into the jewellery industry.

 

Better Business Toolbox guidance: Equality and Diversity

This guidance produced by the Association’s Better Business Steering Group is presented in draft format for consultation with NAJ members. Members can feedback on the draft guidance up until Friday 18^th September (login required).

View draft guidance

Gary Wroe, NAJ Chair said,

“We recognise that the above actions are not exhaustive, but they do have our initial attention. As well as these internal actions we will also work externally to support and champion partners and initiatives where equality and diversity participation and recognition is celebrated. This means it is important we continue to consult and continue to monitor the jewellery community consistent with our approach in recent weeks.”

The above actions follow a recent donation of £5,000 from the Benevolent Society (BATF/NAJ) to the UK Black Jewellers' Hardship Fund. 

 

 

Source: The National Association of Jewellers