Code of Practice on Race Equality in Employment

The Commission for Racial Equality have finally managed to get the Government to agree a new Code of Practice on Employment which replaces the previous one agreed over 20 years ago. The Code is Statutory and covers all employers. It makes it unlawful for any employer to discriminate against an employees or applicant for a job on grounds of race unless such discrimination can be justified.

What surprises those wanting to see the Code of Practice updated is why the CRE and the Government had not made much noise about it? It is important that all employers large and small make sure that they are acting within the law. But few businesses know about the Code let alone what it says.

Ethnic minority businesses need to know what the law says about racial discrimination just as much as White business need to know. The law protects everyone Black or White against unlawful racial discrimination. Diversity Solutions offers advice and training to small business so that you know what the law says and you can play you part in promoting racial equality in Southwark and in the UK.

We are disappointed that the Code of practice, which has to be followed by all employers, and which could affect the well being of thousands of people who are currently enduring racism at work should receive so little support and publicity. It is not just that my company makes a living (at present a very small one) by selling our services to promote race equality, it is that justice and equality would be served if people know about the protection that the law provides.

Linda Bellos

posted by Linda Bellos @ 10:22 AM