Bus scheme for more diverse workforce

A new scheme to develop the bus managers of the future in London was launched last month by bus operator London United and general union Unite.

The training programme will take up to 10 junior employees from groups currently underrepresented in London United’s management — encouraging applications from women and ethnic minorities — during 2013.

The potential applicants could be bus drivers, engineers or in administration roles who would then go on five two-day modules.

This project is a joint sponsored initiative between Unite and London United, aimed at providing first level supervisory and management skills training for junior grade staff with a view to developing future managers and enhancing the diversity mix of the management population.

Unite regional equalities officer Mel Whitter said: “The bus industry in London has an amazingly diverse workforce; I am pleased to be working with the company to recognise the full potential of its employees, especially women and ethnic minority workers.”