Vale Council has secured silver 'trailblazer' status for its work in tackling racial inequality.
The local authority was first recognised by the campaign group Race Equality Matters two years ago, when it awarded 'bronze' status as part of a scheme highlighting the work of organisations.
The council says it's continued to address racial inequality by giving diverse members of staff a voice to share their stories and by supporting the Vale's schools in becoming actively anti-racist.
Other efforts have included championing the council's diverse staff network and creating safe space meetings between its members and senior council leaders.
Race Equality Matters was formed in 2020 in response to the Black Lives Matter protests sparked by the murder of George Floyd.
The REM Trailblazer status is determined by an independent panel of experts - all of whom have experienced racial inequality in the workplace - to highlight efforts by organisations to become more diverse, inclusive and equal.
Cllr Ruba Sivagnanam, cabinet member for equalities, said: "We are proud to share that we have been awarded silver Trailblazer status from Race Equality Matters, as a result of the progress we are making both internally, and with the wider community in the Vale."
“It is so important that we earn the trust and confidence of the diverse communities we represent and are driving towards becoming a council which is anti-racist."
“Jumping from Bronze to Silver Trailblazer status over the last two years is such an incredible achievement, and we will continue our work towards race equality, listen and learn from our local communities, and ensure colleagues from the Global Majority are supported in the workplace."
“We still have a long way to go, but we are committed to proactively challenging behaviours and facilitating the conversation around race equality in our workplace to ensure we transform our organisation for the better.”
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