Creating an anti-racism workplace culture

In the wake of a widely shared report on bullying (offsite link) within the charity sector, Quakers in Britain have been prompted to reflect on the culture of our workplace.

Equality is a deeply-held value for Quakers, and we aim to offer employees a workplace where every person can flourish.

Work on racial and cultural inclusivity has stepped up a gear in the wake of last summer's Black Lives Matter conversations and commitments, but we recognise that some changes have not come soon enough for some former employees. We recognise that effectively addressing racist behaviour when it arises is essential to creating an inclusive workplace.

Paul Parker, Recording Clerk, said: "We are working on becoming a truly anti-racist employer, but I know we still have a lot of work to do to achieve this goal across the organisation. I care very much that all our staff feel welcomed, valued and respected. It saddens me that this has not always been the case.

"We take it very seriously when things are raised with us and it's important that we're accountable when things go wrong. Creating a culture of anti-racism will involve work for us all, and we are still learning how to do it. It is not easy. We may well stumble along the way. But it's what we've got to do."