Forget Equality.

Equality is a buzzword that often dominates discussions about fairness at work, particularly in the HR space, where the legal emphasis is on fairness across entire groups. But it's become clear in recent years that treating everyone the same doesn’t create a fair or successful workplace. In fact, it can reinforce existing barriers and stifle potential.

The solution is equity. Granted, this isn’t new news. But some companies still don’t work this way. To explain more…

Equity moves beyond the blanket approach of equality. It recognises that your team members come from different backgrounds, live in different circumstances, face different challenges, and have different strengths— it ensures they receive the specific support they need to succeed. I’ve seen how shifting from equality to equity can positively impact a company.

Take maternity/paternity returners for example: is it always the right thing to throw them back in to full time work? I worked with a high-performing team member who was returning from maternity leave. Rather than offering the same workload and hours as everyone else, we designed a phased return and introduced flexible working arrangements. This wasn’t “special treatment.” It was about acknowledging her circumstances and providing the right tools to ensure her transition back was smooth and productive, and manageable for her. In time she quickly returned to full capacity, feeling supported and motivated—and continues to deliver at an impressive level.

On the flip side, I’ve also seen what happens when companies focus solely on equality. At one business, a new mentoring scheme was made available across the teams. While well-intentioned, the scheme didn’t account for the fact that under-represented groups often face unique barriers. When we realised some people weren’t taking up the mentoring opportunities, we provided tailored support to those who needed it most, helping them find the right mentors in the right places or offering alternative development coaching which matched them. The programme finally delivered real progress and is now on track to increase diversity at senior levels.

🟰Equality assumes a level playing field.
🪜Equity recognises that the playing field is uneven and works to level it by meeting people where they are.

Businesses that embrace equity see the results in higher team engagement, increased retention, and better overall performance.
Are you still asking how you can treat everyone the same? If so why not start asking: What does each person need to succeed?

Have you seen equity in action, or is your company still clinging to equality?