Croydon bosses launch equality pledge to tackle all discrimination on International Women’s Day

Croydon chiefs have launched an equality pledge to make it a more inclusive borough.

Organisations of every size, set-up and sector in the borough are encouraged to adopt the pledge – they can sign up on Croydon council’s website.

The pledge, launched on International Women’s Day, aims to ensure Croydon residents and staff are treated equally and fairly, including every disability, faith, gender, age, sexual orientation and race.

A George Floyd Race Matters Pledge will also launch in May with a specific focus on the experiences of people of African, Caribbean, and African Latin heritage.

The Croydon Equalities Pledge is made up of 10 workplace activities, including mandatory equalities and bias training, fairer recruitment processes, and adjustments for disabled people.

Participating organisations are encouraged to commit to a minimum of three activities per year to create change.

On International Women’s Day, local businesses, organisations, partners, residents, school pupils and staff gathered in the town hall to launch the Croydon Equalities

Councillor Manju Shahul-Hameed, cabinet member for communities, safety and business recovery said: “The Croydon Equalities Pledge and the tangible workplace activities it includes are a solid step towards ensuring no Croydon resident is discriminated against on the basis of their faith, gender, age, sexual orientation, disability or other protected characteristic.

“I am proud to see local businesses and organisations come together to drive change and ensure those in their communities are treated fairly and equally. I hope many more will join them and the council in adopting the pledge.”

Andrew Brown, chief executive officer for Croydon BME Forum said: “Everyone in Croydon deserves to be treated fair and equally, but this change cannot come from individuals alone.

Employers and other local organisations can make a real difference by committing to the workplace activities set out in the Croydon Equalities Pledge.

“The BME Forum and its members have long worked towards a more inclusive borough – we hope other local organisations will join us in signing up and signalling their support for our shared vision of a fairer Croydon for all.”

Barnabas Shelbourne, chief executive for Legacy Youth Zone said: “Being part of Croydon’s Equality Pledge means that, along with other local organisations, we commit to fairness, equality and opportunities for all regardless of their background including race, religion, or gender.

“It is important for us to take action now and show the next generation that positive change can and will happen when it comes to discrimination, racism and unconscious bias.

At Legacy Youth Zone, we’re committed to this Equality Pledge for our staff, volunteers and young people’s futures across Croydon.”