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Racial Equality Standards for Schools
The Local Education Authority has shown support for this document. I am aware that some schools receive copies and some seem not yet to have heard of the guidance. The feedback from those who have spoken to me has been positive and that it is an excellent tool to work with, it is precise, clear, and easy to follow. I welcome more contact from schools as our children are our future and deserve maximum input. This is to the good of black and white children.
Housing
12 racial harassment (RH) cases are from housing neighbourhood disputes. 2 of the disputes escalated to grievous bodily harm. In consultation with the victims and in partnership with housing departments, NNREC negotiated for 5 tenants who experienced RH to be re-housed. A move to give housing officers training on good practice and develop anti-racist policy guidance has been agreed. From the investigations of housing disputes, I learnt that prejudice and ignorance of one another’s culture greatly contributed to the racist incidents. We need to promote understanding and good relations between persons of different racial groups. With this in mind, I discussed the issues with a mixed heritage group in one of our districts council areas. The outcome was to have an event to celebrate some of their achievements. The group is willing to do this in the autumn. It was agreed that the group would invite their white friends and neighbours to the event. This work need to be assisted by our Community Race Development Officer [CRDO].
Public Places Re: Refugees & Asylum Seekers
Records indicate that there maybe 600 in Norfolk to date and providing services specific to needs is a matter of concern. Many are being denied leisure services; 10 RD cases have been reported to NNREC. After investigations I made contact with managers of the public places concerned, 2 agreed to work with NNREC to assist them to develop an anti-racist policy and possibly a protocol. New Start Great Yarmouth made arrangements to offer assistance to the refugees and asylum seekers based in Yarmouth. This will lead to work for our CRDO.
Employment
There are 28 racial discrimination (RD) cases connected to the lack of promotion, progression, retention and redundancy of ethnic minority employees. Out of the 28 RD cases, 5 were served with RR65 questionnaires, 4 were referred to Employment Tribunal and 2 out of court confidential negotiated settlements were awarded. Besides dealing with the employment cases, I am on the New Deal Steering Group in order to work towards improving employment prospects of ethnic minorities. In partnership with Employment Services, we are contacting ethnic minorities to come forward and participate in the New Deal programmes. I am also working with Norwich City and Norwich Union on ethnic minority capacity building through training and attachment or job placement. Agreed action points for health and for employer training agencies are also being developed. more >>>
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