The author examines whether small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) can contribute to government social exclusion policy objectives through the employment of certain groups which are underrepresented in the UK workforce—the older workers, ethnic minorities, lone parents, and disabled people. Data on the recruitment practices of a panel of South London SMEs suggest that employment opportunities for these groups might be restricted, particularly for disabled people. In the absence of policy measures tackling employer practices and the stereotypical beliefs that underpin them, or to stimulate employer demand for labour, exclusion will be perpetuated. Supply-side policy interventions can help but are likely to increase opportunities for the most job-ready job seekers while further marginalising others.
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