"BAME Challenge" launch

The aim of the challenge is to refocus energy and commitment in UK workforces to drive change that will ensure that businesses attract, recruit, retain and develop BAME colleagues to reach their potential and enhance our businesses and organisations

The launch of the challenge organised by Inclusive Employers and the House Diversity and Inclusion team was attended by 40 different organisations. These included representatives from TSB, Tesco, Enterprise Rent a Car, Sony, Barnardo’s and the House of Commons, who led the working groups under themes of attraction, development and leadership. Colleagues from over 50 different organisations, from public, private and third sectors agreed to work together for the next 12 months to develop a cost effective and practical toolkit to enhance BAME careers and they agreed to return to the House in 2017 to share any materials and guidance that they develop during that time.

Rt Hon John Bercow MP, Speaker of the House of Commons said:

“I was delighted to introduce the BAME Challenge to organisations who are as committed as I am to increasing BAME people in leadership positions. This goal is extremely important to the House of Commons, and I am sure that this excellent initiative will prove a positive step, with a national reach.”

The BAME Challenge is part of the work that the House of Commons and Digital Service is undertaking to improve BAME representation at senior levels of the organisation and stems from the House of Commons Diversity and Inclusion Strategy for 2015-2018.  

Inclusive Employers is the UK’s Leading membership organisation for employers working to create truly inclusive cultures. www.inclusiveemployers.co.uk