Decision details

1.

Title of Item/Report

Anti-Racism Charter

2.

Record of the Decision

Consideration was given to a report on the Anti-Racism Charter.

Creating a fair, inclusive, and respectful workplace is central to Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council’s values and commitment to equality.

The Council was committed to tackling racism in the workplace and promoting a diverse and inclusive workforce. Working in partnership with the Council’s Employee Race Equality Network and endorsed by the Colleagues Powering Our Futures Board, an Anti-Racism Charter had been developed and was attached to the report.

The Charter demonstrated the Council’s public commitment as an employer to actively challenge racial discrimination and advance equity and inclusion across the organisation. It outlined commitments to address racial disparities in recruitment, promotion, learning and development, disciplinary and grievance procedures, and pay and reward. It also recognised the impact racism can have on mental health and commits to creating a psychologically safe culture of belonging for Black, Asian, mixed-heritage and other ethnically diverse colleagues.

The Charter aligned with the Council’s people policies, organisational culture and inclusive values. Signing the Charter reinforced the Council’s compliance with the Equality Act 2010 and supported the Public Sector Equality Duty by demonstrating due regard to eliminating discrimination, advancing equality of opportunity and fostering good relations.

It was proposed that Cabinet recommend the Charter to Council for adoption and invite the Mayor, Leader and Chief Executive to sign the Charter on behalf of the Council, together with the Lead of the Employee Race Equality Network and Trade Union representatives signing on behalf of employees.

RECOMMENDED to Council that:-

1. The Anti-Racism Charter be adopted (Appendix A of the report) as a statement of the Council’s corporate commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion.

2. The Mayor, Leader of the Council and Chief Executive sign the Anti-Racism Charter on behalf of the Council at the meeting of Council, alongside the Lead of the Employee Race Equality Network and Trade Union representatives signing on behalf of employees.

3. The implementation of the Charter will be overseen through the officer led Colleagues Powering Our Futures Board, with progress reported to Cabinet after twelve months.

4. Ensure that all Members of the Council complete Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) training at least once every two years, or more frequently if required under the Council’s mandatory training policy for Members.

3.

Reasons for the Decision

Racism remains a lived reality for Black, Asian, mixed heritage, and other ethnically diverse people in the UK.  By signing this Charter, the Council will be making a public commitment to addressing racism and promoting equity and inclusion across the organisation.  This will include actively working to understand, explain, challenge, and address racial inequity and injustice, while supporting colleagues from minority ethnic backgrounds and protecting them from harm.

4.

Alternative Options Considered and Rejected

None

5.

Declared (Cabinet Member) Conflicts of Interest

None

6.

Details of any Dispensations

None

7.

Date and Time by which Call In must be executed

N/A