Tourism and hospitality businesses across Northern Ireland are being invited to take part in an important research project exploring how the sector can improve inclusive recruitment.
This initiative, part of a wider policy research programme, aims to identify practical steps that employers can take to attract and retain a more diverse workforce – including underrepresented groups such as carers, disabled people, women, and older workers.
With over 300,000 people in Northern Ireland currently classified as economically inactive – representing more than a quarter (27.2%) of the working-age population – the project will explore how employers can engage with this untapped talent pool. Notably, nearly 50,000 people within this group have expressed a desire to return to work and could thrive with the right support and opportunity.
What Will the Research Explore?
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Financial and non-financial barriers to recruitment faced by employers
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Real-world examples of inclusive recruitment in action
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Practical and policy recommendations to help employers and government create a more accessible and sustainable workforce
How to Get Involved
Employers can contribute in two ways:
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Complete a short online survey surveymonkey.com
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Participate in a 1-to-1 interview by emailing Roisin.Mckee@people1st.co.uk
Whether you’re actively recruiting or planning for future growth, your insights will help shape a more inclusive approach to employment across the tourism and hospitality sectors.