The role of diversity training in an era of business and socio-economic uncertainty: Managing migrant workers’ social integration at the workplace in UK organisations

In an era marked by business volatility and socio-economic uncertainty, it is widely suggested that diversity training could support the creation of a supportive climate of all migrant workers’ social integration at the workplace to contribute collectively to organisational goals (CIPD, 2017; Herring and Henderson, 2015). Various immigration theories (e.g., Neoclassical, dual labour market, world systems, and network) will inform this research study. The objective of this study is to examine how diversity training can support the social integration of migrant workers within organisations in the UK, thereby enhancing their overall efficiency and wellbeing. The study aims to pinpoint optimal strategies that can be implemented to improve workplace cohesion and employee contentment. Furthermore, the research will evaluate the influence of existing training schemes on operational effectiveness, staff turnover rates, and general business viability during periods of unpredictability.

The project’s research questions are shared below:

• What types of diversity training programmes are currently implemented in UK organisations to support the social integration of migrant workers?
• How do these programmes address the specific needs of migrant workers to influence individual and organisational performance and employee wellbeing positively?
• What best practices can be identified from successful diversity training initiatives?
• What challenges do organisations face in implementing and sustaining effective diversity training programmes?
• How do migrant workers perceive the impact of diversity training on their social integration, job satisfaction and well-being?
• What are the experiences of non-migrant employees regarding diversity training and workplace integration of their migrant counterparts?

This research study will contribute to organisational behaviour and human resource management fields. Firstly, it will thoroughly analyse the importance of diversity training in improving the social integration of migrant workers. The study will propose practical recommendations for companies to strengthen their diversity training initiatives. Furthermore, it will enhance the broader discourse on diversity and inclusivity by highlighting the specific needs and experiences of migrant workers. Ultimately, the findings will assist policymakers and business leaders in developing more inclusive and effective workplace strategies. The project aligns with the Centre for People, Work, and Organizational Practice's research interests, particularly focusing on the research theme of “Health and Wellbeing,” which aims to secure workplace well-being for all individuals within an organisation. Following the relative lack of research focusing on the experiences and perceptions of social integration at the workplace on behalf of those who have been able to enter the labour market, this research study will shed light on how diversity training could facilitate the social integration process through the respective perceptions of our research participants.

Supervisors

Dr Fotios Mitsakis