Every year, the tech industry rolls out campaigns about “diversity” and “inclusion”… but for many under‑represented groups, it often feels more like marketing than meaningful change.
Panels, hashtags, bold public statements, yet the lived experience doesn’t match the hype. We keep hearing: “There aren’t enough diverse candidates in tech.”
In the UK, the numbers are shocking:
- Only 9% of people from disadvantaged backgrounds enter tech
- Women and non‑binary people make up just 29% of the workforce, and only 21% at senior level
- Ethnic minority representation drops from 25% to 14% in leadership
- Only 6% of tech employees are disabled (vs 23% nationally)
- Over‑50s remain underrepresented
These gaps aren’t about ability.
They’re about the system, the conditions women step into, and the barriers that shape who progresses and who doesn’t.
Until we address these systemic issues, access, culture, support, safety, visibility, “equal opportunities” will remain more of a promise than a reality.
But right now, there is a real opportunity to drive change.
The Gov.UK DSIT Women in Tech Taskforce is calling all UK women in tech, women in STEM, STEM education and training providers, inclusive recruiters, professional bodies, and
ALL advocates and allies to add your voice to the Gov.UK DSIT Women in Tech Taskforce call for evidence. Details available here
Submit by 23 April 2026.
