Education Partnership North East Signs Unison Anti-Racism Charter

In a recent signing of the Unison Anti-Racism Charter, Education Partnership North East (EPNE) has proudly reaffirmed its dedication to fostering a culture of inclusivity, equity, and respect.

This landmark step marks EPNE’s unwavering commitment to eradicating racism in all forms and championing a diverse and equitable community.

The charter outlines a comprehensive framework for challenging racism, promoting racial equality, and ensuring inclusivity throughout organizational structures. By embracing the charter, EPNE pledges to uphold principles that align with its mission to create a supportive and inclusive environment for all students, staff, and community members.

Vikkie Morton, Vice Principal for Student Life and Stronger Communities, and DEIB Lead at EPNE, emphasised the importance of this initiative: “Signing the Unison Anti-Racism Charter signifies our collective resolve to not only stand against racism but to actively dismantle structures that perpetuate inequality.

“This charter strengthens our mission to create an environment where every individual feels valued, supported, and empowered to succeed.”

Terry Johnstone, Regional Anti-Racism and Community Cohesion Lead at Unison – Northern said: “EPNE’s commitment to the anti-racism charter is a significant step towards creating a truly inclusive workplace where every member of staff feels valued and respected.

“Racism has no place in our education sector, and this charter is a clear signal that the EPNE is dedicated to tackling these inequalities proactively with UNISON’s support.”

By signing the charter, EPNE is committing to certain actions, such as establishing a visible race equality policy and anti-racism program, providing anti-racism training and well-being support for staff experiencing racism.

Other actions include undertaking equality impact assessments and publishing ethnicity pay gap data and embedding anti-racism initiatives within strategic plans to reflect the diversity of the communities it serves.

These commitments are designed to go beyond compliance, ensuring EPNE becomes an active force in driving meaningful change.

The charter complements EPNE’s existing Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB) initiatives as outlined in its comprehensive statement, which emphasises equity, belonging, and respect as foundational values.

Vicky Cummings, Head of People Operations at Education Partnership North East said: “Signing the Anti-Racism Charter signifies our commitment to actively oppose racism in all its forms and to foster inclusivity and equality within EPNE. It is an acknowledgement of the need for change, personal responsibility, and collective action.

“By signing the charter, we pledge to educate our staff, support them to confront any biases, and work towards creating an environment that is free from discrimination and prejudice.”

EPNE has long championed the importance of DEIB, integrating these principles into its curriculum, leadership practices, and community engagement. From embedding DEIB into teaching to fostering a culture of belonging, EPNE is dedicated to creating an environment where differences are celebrated, and everyone has the opportunity to thrive.