As a Community Equalities Representative, you will champion the rights of under-represented groups (LGBT+, women, BAME, disabled and young workers) to ensure that their voices are heard. You will represent Community to your colleagues and be expected to update them on equalities legislation, tackle discrimination and create more a more inclusive workplace.
The responsibilities of a Community Equalities Representative include:
- Advising your branch on equalities issues and supporting members from under-represented groups.
- Raising awareness on discrimination and equalities issues.
- Mapping workplaces to ensure the branch is representative of all employees.
- Carrying out equalities surveys.
- Promoting best practice on all policies and agreements.
- Keeping members informed on equalities issues.
- Helping negotiate for policies and practices/monitor their effectiveness.
- Identifying equalities issues and making sure they’re on the agenda.
What training is provided?
Community would never expect you to undertake this role without proper training. To ensure you are confident in your role as an Equalities Representative, our team offer in-person and virtual training on diverse topics to support you in your role. This includes, but is not limited to, your role and responsibilities, equality law, domestic violence, disability law, transgender awareness, negotiations and more.
If Community is recognised in your workplace, your workplace should offer facility time to cover your time training.
Visit our events calendar to register for upcoming training.
As a Representative, you also get access to our RepCentre – a central hub for all the resources and information you need as a Community Equalities Representative.
As an Equalities Rep, you also get access to our Equalities Hub, a central resource on everything you need to know for your role.
We recommend you take full advantage of our Representative training opportunities. If you have any queries, please contact us.
What are my rights?
As an Equalities Representative, you have certain rights under employment law. These are set out in the Advisory, Conciliation and Arbitration Service (ACAS) code of practice and EHRC Employment Statutory Code of Practice . This includes promotion of diversity, ensuring legal compliance, conducting equality audits, raising awareness of and engaging with your employer on equality issues.
Interested in becoming an Equalities Representative?
If you are interested in becoming a Community Equalities Representative, please speak with a Community Rep at your workplace if you have one, and they’ll able to explain what opportunities are available. Don’t have a Rep at work, or want further information? Contact our equalities team today to see what opportunities are available.
If you have any queries about becoming a Community Equalities Representative, or the training involved, please contact us at equalities@community-tu.org or on 0800 389 6332.
© Community Trade Union 2024