Race Equality Week is a time to reflect on our progress, but more importantly, it’s a call to action.
This year’s theme, Every Action Counts, reminds us that small, meaningful steps lead to lasting change.
As an HR consultancy working in the social sector, Roots HR has seen how even modest initiatives or changes can improve workplace inclusion and equity.
For micro, small and medium employers in the social sector, addressing race equality may seem daunting, especially when resources are tight.
However, meaningful progress doesn’t have to come with a hefty price tag.
Here are some achievable, cost-effective steps you can take to foster race equality in the workplace.
1. Start the Conversation
Creating a culture of race equality begins with having an open dialogue. Encourage discussions about race, inclusion, and diversity by hosting informal conversations, provide space and time for employees to share their experiences helps build awareness and understanding.
2. Review and Update Policies
Ensure that your HR policies reflect a commitment to race equality. Review your policies and update them to ensure they support fair treatment for all employees. If you need any support with reviewing your existing HR documentation you can find out about support that Roots HR can offer you here.
3. Improve Recruitment Practices
Unconscious bias can hinder inclusivity. Simple steps such as anonymising applications, having interview panels, using structured interview questions, and advertising job roles in diverse networks can make a big difference in attracting talent from all backgrounds. Make sure your hiring managers watch our webinar on Avoiding Unconscious Bias in Interviews.
4. Celebrate Diversity Year-Round
Beyond Race Equality Week, acknowledge and celebrate cultural events that matter to your workforce, such as Black History Month, Diwali, or Eid. Recognising these events fosters inclusion and makes employees feel valued for who they are.
5. Educate and Empower Your Team
Anti-racism training doesn’t have to be expensive. Free resources such as our webinar on Antiracism for Social Sector Managers can provide employees with knowledge and tools to challenge bias and discrimination.
6. Monitor and Measure Progress
Set small, tangible goals for your organisation’s race equality journey. You could conduct workforce surveys to assess inclusion and track progress in hiring diverse talent. Transparency and accountability are key to ensuring long-term change.
7. Use Existing Networks
Tap into race equality initiatives, local community groups, and sector-wide alliances to access best practices and share learning. Roots HR offers a host of free resources tailored to SMEs in the not-for-profit sector.
Thriving at Work
Race equality isn’t just about compliance—it’s about creating an equitable and thriving workplace for all.
By committing to small, consistent actions, social sector SMEs can make a real impact without stretching their budgets.
The key is to start today because Every Action Counts!
Contact us today if you have any questions or would like to know more.
