Barking and Dagenham Council has become the latest local authority in the capital to sign up to UNISON’s anti-racism charter today.

The charter, which aims to tackle racism in the public sector, commits organisations and their leaders to having a clear and visible race equality policy, as well as a programme of anti-racism initiatives such as training for all staff.

It also includes promoting a diverse workforce, addressing the impact of racism on staff wellbeing, and regularly reviewing strategies to improve racial equality, diversity and inclusion so the organisation can reflect the communities it serves.

The charter is part of a wider UNISON initiative to combat racism in the workplace. It comes in response to a survey by UNISON in London of 1,000 black workers. This revealed that only 30% felt their employer took race equality seriously.

Additionally, half of those surveyed (51%) also said they had witnessed or being a victim of racial discrimination at work, and 53% said they believed race had prevented them from progressing in their career.

Councillor Darren Rodwell, Leader of Barking and Dagenham Council said: “In solidarity with our shared commitment to fostering an inclusive and equitable workplace and the community we serve, today marks a pivotal moment as we, together with our valued partners, affirm our dedication to dismantling the barriers brought on by racism.

“By signing this anti-racism charter, we pledge to build on a culture that celebrates diversity, embraces equality, and ensures that every voice is not only heard but genuinely valued.”

UNISON London regional secretary Jo Galloway said: “It’s fantastic that Barking and Dagenham Council is making this commitment and setting an example to all local authorities.

“There still is a lot of work to be done to challenge racial inequality in the workplace, and we hope to see many other councils following Barking and Dagenham’s lead and signing up to the charter.”