Over two thirds (69%) of female business leaders say they still experience gender-based discrimination in the workplace, according to new research released ahead of International Women’s Day this Sunday.
The survey of 101 senior figures across the UK, commissioned by personalised workwear provider MyWorkwear, revealed worrying statistics of women feeling worried about personal security and harassment at offices and factories across the country.
Concerningly, 70% of respondents didn’t feel safe in the workplace, with the most common reasons cited being personal security, such as on-site security or lone working (36%), a lack of protection from bullying and harassment (34%) and physical safety (31%).
On a more positive note, 69% of women said they believed both sexes now receive equal pay for the work carried out.
“Workplace equality isn’t just about pay,” commented Gayle Parker, Commercial Director at MyWorkwear.
“It’s about safety, inclusion and ensuring women feel safe when they go, attend and come back from work. The results are clearly telling us that this is not the case, and firms need to take action to turn this worrying trend around.
“We want to encourage the next generation of female leaders to believe they can achieve anything, and this must start with ensuring the workplace is safe, inclusive and that staff are fitted out with the right clothing. It’s the basic things that can make such a huge productivity difference.”
When asked what factors made them feel like an equal member of the team, respondents ranked equal pay for equal work as the most important. This was followed by opportunities for training and career progression, while women’s workwear options and internal recognition were also highlighted as key contributors for creating a sense of inclusion.
“Ill-fitting PPE and workwear might seem minor, but it sends a wider message about whether women are fully considered in workplace planning,” continued Gayle.
“As a workwear provider, we are engaged in regular conversations with hundreds of firms about the need for a wide range of women’s workwear options. Our data shows a shocking 62% of women have been expected to wear men’s fit or unisex fit items in the workplace at some point in their career.
“This is disappointing from bosses across the country, especially when you consider the vast amount of dedicated women’s workwear that is available in 2026.”
The MyWorkwear report did show some evidence that companies were listening, with 75% of women surveyed saying their employer now provides women’s fit PPE and workwear options as standard and over two thirds (69%) saying they’re given a wide selection to choose from.
