They have set up a new initiative called Equality Matters in Business (EMB) to promote the value of employing a diverse workforce, including people of all races, ages and religions. A series of workshops is being held across Scotland to advise smaller businesses on diversity among their employees.

An SE spokesman said:

"To date much of the debate on diversity has focused on employment law and compliance, but we are anxious to emphasise that while that is important, there are other real benefits of embracing diversity issues which can make a positive difference to the way businesses work.

"For example, it can open up new market opportunities and deliver dramatic improvements in performance and productivity including the ability to target a wider choice of potential employees and along with that, a broader resource of skills and creativity."