Merton Council has become the latest London local authority to sign up to UNISON’s Anti-Racism Charter, which is dedicated to actively addressing and dismantling barriers caused by racism within the workplace.

UNISON’s charter commits organisations who sign to various pledges that aim to address racism, boost equality and prevent racial bias within the public sector.

The pledge includes providing anti-racism and unconscious bias training, reviewing strategies to improve racial equality and inclusion, and implementing a clear programme of initiatives to support racially diverse staff.

Councillor Edith Macauley MBE, Chair of Merton’s Joint Consultative Committee with Ethnic Minority Organisations, said: “As an organisation and employer, the council and its partners have a vital role to play in eliminating racism in our workforce and the communities we serve.

“By agreeing to this pledge, we acknowledge the importance of actively tackling racism in all its forms and dismantling barriers caused by racism in our borough.”

Councillor Eleanor Stringer, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Civic Pride, added: “Merton takes pride in its diverse communities. Our signature on this charter reaffirms our commitment to fostering belonging, reducing inequality, and promoting inclusivity in the council’s workforce. We are dedicated to being proactively anti-racist, not just non-racist.”

UNISON London regional secretary Jo Galloway said: “It’s great that Merton Council is making this commitment to tackle racism in the workplace. 

“There’s a lot of work to be done to combat racial inequality at work but by taking this first step, Merton is setting a great example to other public sector employers and we hope to see others following suit.”