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Worcestershire County Council recognises the importance of promoting race relations and involving staff in decisions, and information sharing. The BCG at Worcestershire County Council has been running for ten years.

Purpose of the Group:

• To play an active part in the work of the Corporate Race Equality Group.
• To assist the County Council in its role of monitoring the effectiveness of the Race Equality Scheme
• To provide advice, from a black perspective, on the recruitment and retention of ‘black’ colleagues
• To hold regular meetings to discuss issues and develop the work of the Black Colleagues Group

Black Colleagues Group Business Plan 2007/08  (1.32 MB)

The Black Colleagues Group AGM

Election of Chair and Vice Chair...

At the recent AGM Jacqui Allen was elected Chair and Superna Makwana vice chair.

As Chair of the Black Colleagues Group Jacqui will work closely with the vice chair and members of the planning group. She hopes that the BCG can build on the foundations laid over the last ten years to evidence outcomes to the benefit of the:

• work of the County Council in relation to it's duty to promote race equality
• professional development of staff from ethnic minority backgrounds
• communities we represent and serve

Superna Makwana - BCG Vice -Chair

BCG AGM 2006 Report...

The co-author and member of the Race Equality Unit in London, Vernon Harris, was the keynote speaker.  He shared his thoughts on recruting and retaining Black and Minority Ethnic (BME) workers and the purpose of setting up Black Colleague Groups

Read the BCG Annual General Meeting 2006 Report  (684.34 KB)

The Council is required to prepare a Race Equality Scheme and the BCG plays an active role in ensuring Equality and Diversity is always on the agenda for the Council.

What is the Black Colleagues Group?

How long have we had a Black Colleagues Group?

Over ten years now, but it’s profile has been raised recently due to the Race Relations (Amendment) Act, which gives the County Council the statutory duty to promote race equality.

What is the purpose of a Black Colleagues Group?

To play an active role in the work of the Corporate Race Equality Group to help ensure equality and diversity is always on the agenda. It can also provide excellent feedback concerning the needs of our BME communities.

Why is it called the Black Colleagues Group if it concerns all races?

The meaning of black has been defined by the Black Colleagues Group as follows: For the purpose of this constitution Black shall be an embracing term covering those who, by virtue of not being white, are at risk of racist discrimination and prejudice.

If I do not fall into the category of ‘Black’ does that mean I cannot attend the group?

No, not at all as then we would be discriminating against you and that is the opposite of what the group represents. Anyone can join or attend the group. For example, you may want to attend the group once for advice on how to consult or communicate with BME groups. You may have a personal interest in people from BME communities and so may need peer support. It’s open to everyone and anyone with interest in equality and diversity.

What would I have to do if I wanted to join or attend one of the meetings?

Prior notice would be great so they know to expect you and can put you on the agenda. Contact Rukhsana Koser (Corporate Diversity Manager) on 01905 766938 or email Rkoser@worcestershire.gov.uk

How often does the group meet?

The group meets regularly throughout the year......

For more information or to find out the dates of the meetings contact Rukhsana Koser on 01905 766938 or email RKoser@worcestershire.gov.uk