Challenging sexism crucial to retain women in science

The union Prospect and the Institution of Engineering and Technology have compiled a list of actions that can help organisations to recruit and retain female scientists and engineers.

The guidance includes changing mind-sets by challenging bias and sexism whenever and wherever it occurs, educating leaders and making them accountable for change, and making flexible working a reality for all employees.

“When organisations change to accommodate women, it also helps men. We know this has worked in other areas, it’s now about the how,” said Meg Munn, Labour MP for Sheffield Heeley, in a statement supporting the initiative, published on 9 March.