#293 Why slashing your DEI budget is a bad idea

Welcome to the 293rd episode of the award-winning Diverse Minds podcast. In this episode, I examine why slashing your DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) budget is a bad idea, particularly in light of the current political climate and corporate trends affecting both the US and UK. I explore the ripple effects of major corporations rolling back their diversity commitments, the unique challenges facing UK businesses, and most importantly, what leaders and managers can do to maintain meaningful inclusion work even in constrained times.In today’s show on Why slashing your DEI budget is a bad ideaThe importance of DEI budgets and why this topic matters now. [00:56]Changes in attitudes towards DEI and how it's perceived in recent years. [01:15]Current trends and challenges in DEI: from Trump's executive orders to UK corporate responses. [01:21]The impact on UK businesses and what employment experts are saying. [02:38]Practical tips for supporting DEI work with limited resources. [09:43] .stk-91ebae5 {height:30px !important;}Quotes on Why slashing your DEI budget is a bad idea53% of UK employers continue to support DEI, with 22% actively strengthening initiatives despite US policy shifts.DEI cuts signal to underrepresented employees that their needs and experiences are not valid, eroding trust and psychological safety.Without clear DEI frameworks, managers struggle to show they've taken "all reasonable steps" to prevent discrimination under UK law.Gen Z and younger workers prioritise inclusive cultures, making DEI a deal-breaker for talent retention."Diversity by Stealth" is emerging as organisations continue the work but change their language. .stk-ba39a0c {height:30px !important;}Resources for Why slashing your DEI budget is a bad ideaStartups Magazine article: Why DEI cuts aren’t just bad optics, they’re bad businessElectronic Specifier article: DEI in the US: will it impact the UK?Farrer & Co legal firm article: The future of DEI: are UK companies withdrawing their DEI policies?Episode #238: Shake Up Your Women's Network Episode #119: Universal Design and Why It's So Important Episode #109: 8 ways to Create Culturally Inclusive MeetingsDownload the free 200-episode guide with clickable links HERE.Join my Mailing List and receive a white paper on mental health and inclusion hereCheck out my TEDx talk: The Connection between Culture, Race and Mental HealthLeave me a message on my SpeakPipe .stk-0a30c05 {height:30px !important;}Work with me Have a look at my online work-life balance course on Thinkific. You can access it here: http://bit.ly/DMMHPONC .stk-d762e95 {height:30px !important;}One-hour focused Sessions £250 1-2-1Power Hour Sessions for Organisations Complete the form to discuss your training needs: https://forms.gle/hgnYtmTu33Zeem489 Check out my FAQs here: http://diverseminds.co.uk/solutions/coaching/ You can learn more about the coaching I do to support your wellbeing here.  .stk-1ca2f54 {height:30px !important;}Subscribe to the podcast  If you enjoyed this episode, then consider subscribing on Apple podcast, Spotify or wherever you access your podcasts from. If you enjoyed it, why not leave a review?  You can also connect with me on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn.   Remember to tune in next week, where I’ll bring you more insights on mental health and inclusion.