The UK government is introducing new steps to help close the gender pay gap.

From Spring 2026, employers with over 250 staff will be encouraged to publish action plans. These plans will explain how they aim to reduce their gender pay gap and support women at work. By 2027, this is expected to become mandatory.

The gender pay gap has improved over time, but it is still an issue in many industries. These new rules move the focus from simply reporting data to taking real action.

What This Means for Employers

Employers will need to:

• Create a clear gender pay gap action plan based on their data
• Take at least one step to reduce their gender pay gap
• Take at least one step to support employees experiencing menopause
• Share any support systems already in place

This is more than just compliance. It is a chance to build a stronger, more inclusive workplace and improve your employer brand.

How Employers Should Prepare

1. Understand the Issues

Review your gender pay gap data and find the main causes. Speak to employees to understand any challenges they face. Consider how gender links with other factors like ethnicity or disability.

2. Select Your Actions

Choose actions that are clear and realistic. Focus on areas where you can make the biggest impact on pay equality.

3. Submit Your Plan

Publish your action plan alongside your annual gender pay gap report.

4. Track Progress

Measure your results over time. Use data to check if your actions are working.

5. Review Annually

Update your plan each year. Make improvements where needed.

Why Closing the Gender Pay Gap Matters

Fixing the gender pay gap is important for both people and business:

• It promotes fairness and equal pay
• It improves employee morale and motivation
• It reduces legal and compliance risks
• It helps build a positive and inclusive workplace culture

Take the Lead on Workplace Equality

Employers who act early will stand out. They will attract top talent, build trust, and create stronger teams.

At Westwood Recruitment, we help businesses build diverse and future-ready workforces. We understand the importance of gender equality in the workplace and support our clients in staying ahead of new regulations.

Ready to strengthen your workforce?

Get in touch with our team today to find out how we can help you attract, retain, and support top talent while improving workplace equality.

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