Equality is everyone’s right

Equality and Diversity UK provides training, development, advice and resources about embedding EDI i

17/09/2024

A Call for Change: Women in Leadership
Why is it still, with progress made,
That women fight for roles to which they’re swayed?
If companies thrive when women lead,
Why do barriers persist in the world of greed?
We see the stats, the data’s clear,
With women at the helm, success draws near.
Yet too few rise to take the crown,
Too often, their dreams are kept down.
The numbers show what we must face,
Women paid less, in every space.
CEOs named Andrew or Simon still
Outnumber women; that’s the bitter pill.
But look again, there’s hope in sight,
Young women now, with futures bright,
Aspiring to lead, to break the glass,
To make their mark, to move and surpass.
So let us all stand up and fight,
For equal pay and equal rights.
More women in leadership, it's not a dream,
But a future where all voices beam.
Lift them up, support their climb,
Give them space, give them time.
For every woman who dares to lead,
Brings strength and wisdom we all need.
Let's shatter the ceilings, break the mould,
For a world that’s equal, brave, and bold.
The path is long, the work not done,
But together we’ll rise, and together we’ve won.
17.9.2024

A Call for Change: Ethnically Diverse Women in Leadership
Why is it still, with progress gained,
That diverse women fight for roles unclaimed?
When companies thrive with diverse minds,
Why are they still left behind?
The stats are clear, the data loud,
With ethnically diverse women, success is proud.
Yet too few rise to lead the way,
Too often their hopes are pushed away.
The numbers show the struggle vast,
Paid less, promoted last.
Names like John or David lead the show,
While diverse women’s chances are too slow.
But there is hope, a future bright,
Ethnically diverse women ready for flight.
Aspiring to lead, to break the chains,
To forge new paths, to make new gains.
So let us all stand side by side,
For equal pay, for equal stride.
More diverse women at the helm, it’s not a plea,
But a future where all voices soar free.
Lift them up, let them shine,
Give them space, let them align.
For every woman who dares to rise,
Brings vision and wisdom we all prize.
Let’s tear down the walls, break the old,
For a world that’s equal, fierce, and bold.
The journey’s long, the fight not done,
But united, we'll rise, and together, we’ve won.
17.9.2024

02/09/2024

Where Do We Go From Here?
August is over, the heat and fear have passed,
But where do we go from here as a community, at last?
We talked about words, how powerful they can be,
But in our streets, the fight is still not free.
We said, “people of colour,” then we stopped to think,
Because those words can divide, making us blink.
In August’s sun, the air was filled with words like “thugs” and “immigrants,” spoken fast,
But were they really talking about “fascists” and “expats” in the past?
The riots have ended, the streets are calm now,
But for many, the fear remains, like a quiet vow.
They stay on guard, always alert,
Just for living their lives, feeling the hurt.
Don’t be fooled by the silence after the storm,
Their pain is real, their anger still warm.
But in the darkness, a light was found,
Communities joined forces, their voices proud and strong.
They sent a message, loud and clear,
That hate from the far right has no place here.
But the problem is bigger than what we can see,
It’s hidden deep in places we might not agree.
It’s in our politics, our laws, every day and night,
The work to fix it needs more than just one fight.
It’s a long journey, one we must take with care,
To slowly remove racism’s grip, everywhere.
So as the news fades and voices grow quiet,
Remember the work, the need to try it.
Protests alone won’t solve it all,
But join us now, answer the call.
The road is long, the climb is tough,
But together, we can do enough.
To break down walls of hate and fear,
And build a world where everyone is clear.
So, where do we go from here? We rise,
Together, with open eyes.
Join us in this work, this important fight,
For justice, for peace, for what is right.
2.9.2024

01/09/2024
15/08/2024

Inclusion: The Heart of Our Progress
National Inclusion Week (NIW) is back next month from 23-29 September and we at EDUK thought you may enjoy a poetic reminder
Inclusion is a beacon, a light we must ignite,
Where every voice is valued, every talent shines so bright.
In a world of diverse colours, where no one stands alone,
We build a stronger future, a place we all call home.
A culture where we’re cherished, where safety is our shield,
Yields a harvest of success, with better outcomes revealed.
For when we work together, with trust as our guide,
We unlock the full potential that every heart can hide.
The numbers tell the story, the research lights the way,
Diverse teams make decisions that prevent us going astray.
From gender to ethnicity, the power’s plain to see,
Inclusion drives our progress, it sets our spirits free.
For those who’ve been excluded, whose voices were denied,
We open wide our doors, and welcome them inside.
Billion lost, a cost too great to bear,
But with inclusion in our hearts, we demonstrate that we care.
To our LGBTQ+ friends, we truly hold you dear,
Your strength and your talent, we cherish and revere.
You stand proud each day, leading with grace,
Showing that kindness in business has its rightful place.
So let us stand together, in this Inclusion Week,
With open hearts and open minds, it’s unity we seek.
For when we lift each other, and let our true selves soar,
We find a world of possibility, where we can all do more.
This poem serves as a powerful and engaging way to promote National Inclusion Week. It captures the importance of inclusion and diversity, while also reflecting on the business case for creating a welcoming environment for all.

09/08/2024

I love my country

I love my country, let me share my tale,
Of how we faced a storm, a fierce, dark gale.

A small, loud group, with hate in their hearts,
Sought to tear us apart, to poison and scar.

In the wake of tragedy, they saw their chance,
Exploiting pain to fuel their vile dance.
They targeted those who sought safe shores,
Asylum seekers, Muslims, and many more.

With hate-filled words, they attacked with glee,
Even our brave protectors, the police, you see.

But their voices, though loud, were far from the whole,
For a nation's spirit cannot be controlled.

For years, some papers and leaders have fed,
A narrative of fear, where hatred is bred.

They've normalised anger, turned it into a trend,
Even the powerful sought our unity's end.

Yet through the darkness, a light still shone,
Mothers, grannies, the ordinary came along.

From all corners, they gathered to declare,
“We stand together, we’re strong, we care.”

“No,” they shouted, “Not in our name,”
A chorus of love, a rejection of shame.
My heart sang for my nation that day,
For the true spirit of my country had its say.

Yes, there’s a poisonous minority, it’s true,
But the vast majority knows what to do.
They stood up, united, with voices so clear,
“You won’t divide us, we hold no fear.”

I love my country, and now you see,
It’s not the hate, but the love that defines me.

For in the face of those who seek to divide,
We stand together, with hope as our guide.

9.8.2024

03/08/2024

In shadows deep, in daylight clear,
Bias whispers, close and near.
A truth we hold, though oft denied,
That prejudice can’t be pushed aside.

In every heart, a seed is sown,
Of biases, we've often known.
Some tend their garden, pull the weeds,
Others let them grow like needs.

The EDL, its name now past,
But echoes of its hatred last.
On streets they walk, in corners dark,
Their prejudice, a poison spark.

We all possess, if truth be told,
Biases both young and old.
In conscious thought, or deep unseen,
They shape our view, they colour scenes.

Yet some among us strive to fight,
To shine a beam of honest light.
They see the bias, name its face,
And work to bring it to its place.

But others let their biases fester,
Their actions turn to hate and bluster.
They harm the ones with skin of night,
Or those whose difference fuels their spite.

Let’s be the change, let’s dare to see,
The biases in you and me.
To act with kindness, not with fear,
To cherish all we hold dear.

Let’s plant new seeds of empathy,
To grow a world where all are free.
For every heart can learn to find,
The strength to be both just and kind.

Admit the shadows, face the light,
Turn prejudice from wrong to right.
In every heart, a change can start,
To build a world with open hearts.

19/07/2024

In Tenerife, a gem so bright,
Inclusion shines both day and night.
A paradise where all can see,
A world of true diversity.

The beaches wide, the pathways clear,
For every soul, there's access here.
Wheelchairs glide to ocean's edge,
No barrier, no blocked-out pledge.

Hotels stand tall with doors wide open,
Inviting all, a friendly token.
Mobility scooters on demand,
Freedom here, a helping hand.

Cultures mix, they blend, they share,
Dining, laughing, love is there.
Children play, diverse and free,
In this land of unity.

African, Belgian, French, Chinese,
English, too, with hearts at ease.
Each one valued, each one seen,
In this inclusive, vibrant scene.

I feel a sense of belonging deep,
A place where promises they keep.
Respect, care, and open hearts,
A perfect blend of diverse parts.

Tenerife, where dreams align,
A future home when I resign.
A haven built on mutual respect,
Where every soul can feel effect.

Alyson
19.7.2024

06/04/2024

Thinking Out Loud: The media and Megan
In today's world, there's a woman under fire,
Not for any wrongdoing, but because of her desire.
Strong and proud, she faces scorn and hate,
From tabloids and social media, it's a cruel fate.
Meghan Markle, a target of relentless attack,
Simply for being herself, there's no turning back.
They pick apart her every move, every little thing,
Turning innocence into a twisted, ugly sting.
The tabloids pay her family to join the hate parade,
Spreading lies and rumours, leaving her dismayed.
They paint her as a villain, a monster in disguise,
But their false stories only serve to blind our eyes.
Social media joins in, echoing the hate,
Spreading conspiracies, sealing her fate.

They twist the truth and amplify the lies,
Fuelling a campaign built on nothing but despise.
They accuse her of faking, of being less than true,
With lies and false claims, they aim to subdue.
But Meghan stands firm, refusing to hide,
Against their attacks, she won't be denied.
With resilience and strength, she stands tall,
Despite their efforts to make her fall.
Her spirit unbroken, her courage untamed,
Meghan Markle will not be named.
In history's pages, her story will be told,
Of how hate and greed tried to take hold.
But her light shines bright, a beacon in the dark,
A symbol of hope, leaving her mark.
So, let's stand by her side, in solidarity strong,
Against those who spew hate and do wrong.
Meghan Markle is more than the lies they weave,
She's a heroine, a fighter, let's believe.

Send a message to learn more

04/04/2024

Rethinking Gender: Beyond Ge****ls to Hormones
In a world where classification and categorisation seem to reign supreme, it's easy to fall into the trap of equating sameness with safety. We find comfort in familiar patterns, in grouping together those we perceive as similar. Yet, as individuals, our experiences, perceptions, and identities are as varied as the stars in the sky.
One aspect of human identity that often falls under rigid classification is gender. For centuries, society has tethered gender to biological s*x, viewing them as inseparable entities dictated solely by genitalia. However, this simplistic view overlooks a crucial aspect of human biology: hormones.
Take Philippa's story, for instance. Born with male genitalia, Philippa's biology told a more complex tale. Hormonal imbalances during gestation resulted in Philippa being born with more female hormones than male. Despite her male genitalia, Philippa identified and lived as a woman. Her existence challenges the conventional narrative that ge****ls alone determine one's s*x or gender.
Modern science sheds light on the intricate role hormones play in shaping our bodies and identities. From conception to adulthood, hormones orchestrate a symphony of development, influencing everything from physical traits to cognitive processes. Yet, in discussions surrounding gender, hormones are often relegated to the shadows, overshadowed by the prominence of genitalia.
Dr. Patrick Steptoe's groundbreaking work in reproductive medicine, including the birth of the first "test tube baby," underscores the significance of hormonal interventions in conception. Philippa's very existence is a testament to the intricate interplay between genetics, hormones, and identity.
So why do we persist in clinging to outdated notions of gender determined solely by genitalia? The answer lies in our innate resistance to change and our tendency to seek familiarity in the face of uncertainty. But clinging to these outdated beliefs does a disservice to the richness and diversity of human experience.
As Dr. Bruce E. Wexler suggests, our brains shape themselves to fit the recurring features of our environment. When confronted with information that challenges our preconceived notions, we often respond with denial or resistance. This resistance to change can manifest in hostility and violence towards those who exist outside our established norms.
But embracing the complexity of human identity offers a path towards greater empathy and understanding. Recognising that gender is not a rigid binary but a spectrum allows us to celebrate the myriad expressions of identity that exist in the world.

The "Trans women are women" mantra echoes this sentiment, asserting the validity of transgender individuals' identities. Just as no two cisgender women's experiences are identical, the same holds true for transgender women. Our experiences of womanhood are shaped by a multitude of factors, including socialisation, culture, and personal history.
Acknowledging these differences does not diminish the validity of anyone's identity. Instead, it enriches our understanding of what it means to be human and fosters a more inclusive society.
In the end, there are no women like me, just as there are no women like Philippa. Each of us occupies a unique space in the tapestry of human experience. But in our shared humanity, we find common ground—a desire for acceptance, belonging, and understanding.
It's time to move beyond rigid classifications and embrace the complexity of gender. By doing so, we open ourselves to a world of possibility, where everyone is free to express their authentic selves without fear of judgment or discrimination.
In our quest to understand human identity, we often overlook the intricate role hormones play in shaping who we are. From conception to adulthood, these chemical messengers wield immense influence over our physical development and psychological well-being. Yet, in discussions surrounding gender, hormones are often relegated to the shadows, overshadowed by the prominence of genitalia.
Consider Philippa's story. From a very young age, Philippa expressed a deep-seated sense of being a girl, despite being born with male genitalia. This profound disconnect between her assigned s*x and gender identity underscores the complexity of human biology and the limitations of relying solely on genitalia to determine one's gender.
Philippa's narrative takes on added depth when we consider the role of hormones in her development. Born as a result of hormonal interventions in her mother's conception process, Philippa's biology told a more nuanced story than the simplistic narrative of male or female. The hormonal imbalances she experienced in utero played a pivotal role in shaping her identity as a woman.
Yet, despite Philippa's unwavering sense of self, society often struggles to accept individuals whose gender identities do not align with their assigned s*x at birth. This resistance to acknowledging the role of hormones in shaping gender identity reflects a broader reluctance to confront the complexities of human biology.
As Dr. Bruce E. Wexler suggests, our brains are wired to fit the recurring features of our environment. When confronted with information that challenges our preconceived notions, we often respond with denial or resistance. This resistance to change can manifest in hostility and violence towards those who exist outside our established norms.
Denying individuals like Philippa their true identity is akin to denying ethnically diverse people their rightful place in society. Just as ethnic diversity enriches our communities and broadens our perspectives, embracing the diversity of gender identities enriches our understanding of what it means to be human.
By acknowledging the role of hormones in shaping gender identity, we can move beyond rigid classifications and embrace the complexity of human biology. This shift opens the door to greater empathy, understanding, and inclusivity, allowing everyone to live authentically and without fear of judgment or discrimination.
In the end, there are no women like Philippa, just as there are no individuals exactly alike in this vast tapestry of humanity. But in celebrating our differences, we find strength in our shared humanity and create a more compassionate and inclusive world for all.

Send a message to learn more

29/03/2024

Unveiling Skin Privilege: Addressing Colourism and Its Impact on society

Introduction

In recent years, discussions surrounding skin privilege, colourism, and their profound effects on various aspects of society have gained significant traction. While some may argue against its existence, the evidence speaks volumes—individuals with white skin often receive preferential treatment in comparison to their Black, Brown , or mixed-race counterparts.

This disparity permeates through employment, healthcare, housing, education, and various other facets of daily life, perpetuating systemic inequalities and hindering progress towards true equality.

Defining Skin Privilege and Colorism:
Skin privilege refers to the inherent advantages or disadvantages individuals experience based solely on the colour of their skin. Colourism, on the other hand, is a form of discrimination or bias that places value on individuals with lighter skin tones while devaluing those with darker skin tones, both within and outside of racial or ethnic groups.

Ways People are Disadvantaged Due to Skin Colour:
Employment: Studies across the UK and beyond reveal that individuals with black, brown, or mixed-race backgrounds face higher rates of unemployment, wage gaps, and limited career advancement opportunities compared to their white counterparts.

Healthcare:
Ethnically diverse People often receive substandard medical care, encounter barriers in accessing healthcare services, and experience higher rates of misdiagnosis or inadequate treatment.

Housing: Discriminatory practices in housing markets result in ethnically diverse people being disproportionately denied housing opportunities, facing higher rent rates, and living in neighbourhoods with fewer resources and poorer living conditions.

Education:
Students from Ethnically diverse backgrounds encounter disparities in access to quality education, facing systemic barriers such as underfunded schools, biased disciplinary practices, and limited access to advanced coursework and college/university admissions.

Ways People are Advantaged Due to Skin Colour:
Employment:
White individuals are more likely to receive job offers, promotions, and higher salaries compared to their counterparts with darker skin tones, even when qualifications are equal.
Healthcare:
Lighter-skinned individuals may receive more attentive medical care, have better access to healthcare facilities, and experience fewer instances of medical bias or discrimination.
Housing:
White individuals often have an easier time securing housing loans, accessing desirable neighbourhoods, and receiving fair treatment from landlords and estate agents.

Education:
Students with lighter skin tones are more likely to attend well-funded schools, receive preferential treatment from educators, and have higher rates of college acceptance and completion.

Addressing the Issue:
Acknowledgment: Recognising the existence of skin privilege and colourism is the first step towards addressing systemic inequalities and fostering meaningful change.
Education and Awareness: Promoting education and raising awareness about skin privilege and colourism can help dismantle stereotypes, challenge biases, and foster empathy and understanding
Policy Reform: Implementing anti-discrimination laws, Positive action policies, and diversity initiatives can help level the playing field and create more equitable opportunities for all individuals.
Community Engagement: Encouraging dialogue, fostering inclusivity, and amplifying the voices of marginalised communities can empower individuals to advocate for change and challenge systems of oppression.

Conclusion:
Skin privilege and colourism are pervasive issues that continue to perpetuate systemic inequalities and hinder progress towards true equality.
By acknowledging these issues, raising awareness, and taking proactive steps to address them, we can work towards creating a more just and equitable society where everyone has the opportunity to thrive, regardless of the colour of their skin.

24/03/2024

In lands afar, dreams take wing,
Seeking refuge, seeking a new beginning.
But once arrived, a stark divide,
Where white skin flourishes, while others hide.

From Canada's shores, or the USA,
Europe's welcome, they make their way.
But if your skin's Brown or Black,
You're treated differently , that's a fact.

In streets where faces mirror your own,
Discrimination's seeds are sown.
Trying to settle, to find a place,
White neighbours vanish, leaving space.

Integration, a pathway shared,
But judgment's weight is always there.
Assimilate, they demand of thee,
To lose yourself, to simply be free.

Councils segregate you in deprived lands,
Segregation's cruel, unyielding hands.
Brown and Black, pushed aside,
Denied respect, their dignity denied.

What is integration, they ask in vain,
To blend, to conform, to ease the pain?
But to locals, it's assimilation's decree,
To mimic, to mirror, to bend the knee.

A power structure, firm and entrenched,
Where white supremacy leaves others wrenched.
In this plain English truth, it's clear,
If your skin's not white, you're met with fear.

Treated poorly, harassed, and scorned,
They want your labour, but not adorned.
Historically enslaved, still facing strife,
Their courage, their strength, the fabric of life.

Stop discrimination, stop the cruel game,
Skin colour shouldn't dictate fortune or fame.
If Brown and Black people ceased their toil,
Would the nation falter, would it recoil?

Let's learn from past wrongs, let's amend,
Treat all with humanity, let hate end.
For if we unite, despite our skin's hue,
Together, we'll build a better world, anew.

27/02/2024

Once upon a time, people from different countries came to the UK to help rebuild after a big war. But when they arrived, they saw signs that said things like "No dogs, no wogs, no Blacks, no Irish." These signs were very mean and showed discrimination against certain groups of people.

Now, in 2024, some politicians are saying things that divide people. They're talking about parts of London and Birmingham as if they're dangerous and off-limits, especially because of religion.

But other leaders, like Andy Street, who is the mayor of Birmingham, say these claims aren't true. They're proud of the diversity in their cities.

People like Jess Phillips, who represents Birmingham in Parliament, and Ali Milani, who speaks up for Muslims, are saying these claims are wrong. They're standing up against false ideas that cause fear and harm.

In the end, what's important is understanding and respect. We need to work together to make sure everyone feels safe and welcome, no matter where they come from or what they believe.

29/01/2024

In pain, we gather, hearts heavy with sorrow,
To honour the souls we lost tomorrow.
Holocaust Memorial Day, a solemn vow,
For the six million, we solemnly avow.

Men, women, children, torn apart,
By N***s' cruelty, etched in every heart.
Their memory lingers, a haunting refrain,
In the depths of our souls, their pain.

Antisemitism's shadow, it looms still,
A specter haunting, a malignant chill.
In the wake of tragedy, we stand tall,
Against hatred's tide, we heed the call.

October's horror, etched in our minds,
As Hamas' terror, the world blinds.
But amidst the darkness, there's a glimmer of light,
In survivors' stories, shining bright.

Their resilience, a beacon of hope,
In the face of evil, they bravely cope.
Young Ambassadors, voices strong and true,
Inspiring us all, with what they do.

Never Again, we solemnly swear,
To fight for justice, to show we care.
In the echo of history, we find our way,
Guided by remembrance, come what may.

14/01/2024

Stop Knife crime

In a world where danger's near,
Let's keep young hearts, minds, and paths clear.
Parents, be the first to say,
Teach love, steer clear of harm's dark way.

Carers, create a safe embrace,
Listen, love, provide a grace.
No knives, just kindness, no fears,
Hold onto dreams, wipe away tears.

Government, take a firm, bold stand,
Craft policies to safeguard our land.
Invest in learning, youth's delight,
Build a future free from knife's cruel bite.

Educators, with your wisdom and might,
Teach empathy, respect in sight.
No place for knives, just knowledge bright,
Guide them towards a future of light.

Family and friends, shine as a guide,
In shaping lives, stay by their side.
No room for knives, just positive sway,
Encourage the right path every day.

Accountability falls on us all,
Prevent the rise, make a collective call.
Say no to knives, speak up, break the silence,
End together this harmful violence.

Active Bystanders, take a stand,
Against knives, lend a helping hand.
Speak up, step in, make a change,
Protect the vulnerable, help them rearrange.

The loss of life, a heavy toll,
No more knives, let's make that our goal.
Stand united, hand in hand,
A future where peace will expand.

For children and youth, a crystal clear plea,
Stay away from knives, let your spirits be free.

Alyson Malach
14/1/2024

04/01/2024

In Memory of Ruth Perry

In the somber halls of a grieving school, where sorrows unfold,
Ofsted reflects, but change in laws remains untold.

Teachers, shouldering the weight of deep dives, see the curriculum decline,
Sacrificing creativity, joy, and spontaneity, the toll is a sign.

Educators with years aplenty, share tales of anxious strain,
Ofsted's approach, a burden on shoulders, a challenging campaign.

Gathering evidence, a time-consuming chore,
A backward step, they say, from learning's vibrant core.

Staff at every level, fearing deep dives, feel the pressure's weight,
All subjects under scrutiny, a twist of fate.

Leaving becomes bittersweet, with mortgages paid, freedom near,
Ofsted's grip on joy and passion, the cause of many a tear.

Stories unfold of unequal treatment, a plea for fairness in the land,
Change is called for, inspectors' abuse still unaddressed, a demand.

Governors plea for trust and respect, a foundation missing,
Valuing teachers as humans and professionals, a vital fixing.

Alyson Malach points to governance, a blind spot in the gaze,
How can schools be judged when oversight stays in a haze?

Heart-wrenching tales of inspection reports, a cruel design,
Ofsted's accountability questioned, a breach of trust malign.

In the shadow of a headteacher's tragic fate,
Calls for change resonate, it's time to reassess the state.

08/10/2023

In the heart of London, a legacy was born,
A man of strength and courage, his story to adorn.
John Richard Archer, the first of his kind,
A trailblazer for justice, with a brilliant mind.

Born in Liverpool, with roots from afar,
His father from Barbados, his mother from Ireland's star.
A seaman he became, traveling the world wide,
Exploring new horizons, with a sense of pride.

In Canada he found love, with Margaret by his side,
Together they journeyed, to England they would stride.
Settling in Battersea, a new chapter began,
A small photographic studio, his livelihood in hand.

Inspired by the Pan-African Conference, he took a stand,
Entering local politics, with a vision so grand.
Elected to Battersea Council, a voice for the oppressed,
A Progressive leader, with passion he expressed.

In 1913, a historic moment came,
Nominated for mayor, he faced prejudice and blame.
But with determination, he triumphed in the end,
Becoming the first black mayor, a message to send.

His success reached the shores of the United States,
The NAACP celebrated, his achievements they embraced.
A beacon of hope, for those fighting for their rights,
John Richard Archer, a symbol shining bright.

His journey continued, his beliefs held strong,
A Labour representative, he fought against the wrong.
President of the African Progress Union, he led the way,
Advocating for education, for a brighter future each day.

In 1922, he stepped aside,
To support a fellow activist, with unwavering pride.
Shapurji Saklatvala, a voice for the oppressed,
Together they fought, their impact truly blessed.

A governor, a leader, a guardian of the land,
John Richard Archer, a man who took a stand.
His life may have ended, but his legacy lives on,
A source of knowledge and inspiration, for generations to come.

So let us remember, the path he paved,
His courage and resilience, never to be swayed.
Our history and heritage, a source of strength and pride,
John Richard Archer, forever by our side.

14/09/2023

4.5 miles yesterday

24/07/2023

An MP has said she is "delighted" after her bill enabling carers to take unpaid leave was approved by Parliament.
Liberal Democrat Wendy Chamberlain's bill got final approval in the House of Lords on Friday where it received backing from MPs and peers
The Carer's Leave Bill allows voluntary carers to take leave in either half or whole days of up to one week a year.
The new entitlement will be available to employees regardless of how long they have been working for a company.
It will not apply in Northern Ireland, where employment law is devolved.
The legislation, which was backed by MPs earlier this year, is expected to come into force in 2024.
Millions could benefit from the new law, with the Office for National Statistics estimating that in 2021 there were five million unpaid carers in England and Wales.
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Under the bill's provisions, carers would not need to provide evidence when requesting the leave.
The legislation would ensure carers' leave gets the same employment protections as other family-related leave such as parental or bereavement leave - for example, employees would have protection from dismissal if they took the leave.
The government - which supported the bill - has estimated the new provisions would cost businesses £4.7m to become familiar with the new policy, and a further £40m a year due to staff absence and administration costs.
Speaking in favour of the bill, Labour's Baroness Blake of Leeds argued it would help employers by increasing staff retention and reducing turnover.
Liberal Democrat Lord Fox drew attention to research by Carers UK and the University of Sheffield which said unpaid carers in England and Wales contributed £445m to the economy every day.
"The stresses and strains of having to juggle paid work alongside unpaid care without the support they need has left many exhausted and burnt out, and too often it is impossible for them to manage."
He said allowing workers to take time off would stop employees being forced out of their jobs by the need to provide care to others.
Business minister the Earl of Minto said it was a "huge step in the right direction" and would be particularly beneficial to women who are more likely to be providing care.
Liberal Democrat MP Wendy Chamberlain, who introduced the bill in the House of Commons, had said she would like to have seen the leave entitlement be longer and paid.
However, she said the bill was "a vital first step in getting these rights on the statute book".

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Warwick House, Lowes Road
Bury
BL96PJ

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