The past few years have been a turning point for diversity training across UK workplaces.
The landscape is shifting - sometimes in ways that feel challenging and sometimes in ways that spark fresh energy and possibilities. And, because of that, organisations are reassessing what inclusion means, facing new scrutiny and navigating evolving legal and cultural expectations.
So what does this mean for the future of diversity, equality and inclusion (DEI) eLearning?
Diversity training: the changing nature of DEI in organisations
At Ciphr eLearning, we're seeing big trends shape how organisations approach DEI today.
1. Compliance takes centre stage
Organisations want clarity and confidence. Many are prioritising legally defensible approaches over traditional 'best practice'. Concerns about reputational and legal risk are driving this shift - especially around the subject of freedom of speech. The challenge is balancing legal equality commitments with a culture of open and respectful dialogue.
2. DEI reframed as a business priority
The conversation is moving beyond simply 'doing the right thing'. DEI is tied directly to organisational goals and measurable outcomes. This means using language and evidence that resonates across stakeholder groups.
3. Building skills for constructive communication
Workplaces are more diverse - ideologically, culturally and generationally - than ever before. That's a strength, but it can lead to friction. Organisations want training that helps people navigate differences with respect and psychological safety.
What today's diversity training needs to deliver
To meet the evolving needs of organisations, diversity training and wider DEI training is focusing on:
1. Legal compliance
Understanding the Equality Act legislation and sector-specific regulations is now a baseline requirement. Employees need to know their rights and responsibilities.
2. Evidence-led priorities
Organisations want to identify what matters most for their workforce and use data insights and employee feedback to guide decisions.
3. Inclusive communication skills
Active listening. Discussing with empathy. Conflict resolution. These communication skills aren't just 'nice to have' - they're essential for confident, constructive dialogue.
Where do we go from here with diversity training?
The future of diversity training is much more nuanced, strategic and practical than ever. It's about building compliance with culture at the forefront and protecting freedom of speech while upholding equality. Employees need to be equipped with real skills - not just awareness.
Ann Allcock, our head of diversity, commented: "For many workplace EDI practitioners, recent times have felt unusually complex. The climate has created a need to revisit and/or reposition some of the wider and now familiar best practices and concepts such as unconscious bias, active bystander, allyship and privilege.
"For training, this has meant going back to basics and offering a foundational suite of learning and development opportunities that teach about legislation and increasingly regulated sector frameworks. While in isolation, this shift can feel overly risk-averse, we should take any opportunity to re-engage with constructive conversations and clarity. The all-important job of proactively creating an inclusive workplace can continue alongside."
Yes, the terrain feels complex. But this is also an opportunity: to rethink DEI in a way that's clearer, more impactful, and aligned with organisational realities.
How Ciphr eLearning can help with your diversity training needs
At Ciphr eLearning, we have an extensive range of diversity eLearning courses, including DEI microlearning, sexual harassment, dignity and respect at work and skills-based courses.
We also offer facilitated training and a bespoke eLearning service where you can create a unique course tailored to a specific issue or challenge your organisation is facing.
Download our eLearning course catalogue to learn more or get in touch with our team to see how we can help your organisation.