Partner Article

Showing Racism the Red Card at work

A local charity group is launching its latest venture “Business Friends of Show Racism the Red Card”.

Established in 1996, Show Racism the Red Card has worked tirelessly to combat racism in schools by harnessing the high profile of professional footballers to educate youngsters.

Now Chief Executive Ged Grebby hopes to take his campaign from the classroom into the boardroom, and is looking for private sector support for the campaign.

“We have previously had a lot of public sector support,” explains Ged. “But we are now looking towards the private sector. Businesses are becoming increasingly aware of the need for corporate social responsibility policy, and getting involved in the scheme could be a real opportunity to educate staff.”

Previously Show Racism the Red Card has organised celebrity golf days, anniversary dinners and corporate comedy nights, all of which have begun to generate a network of support for the charity.

Experts have also successfully worked in Universities and Public Sector organisations to educate students and employees about racism.

Shaun Johnson, managing director of Potts Packaging is already backing the scheme, and believes that businesses have much to gain from Show Racism the Red Card.

“ Getting involved in the scheme could also provide businesses with a good networking opportunity to get together and do business with other likeminded companies.

“It is vitally important to promote equal opportunities in the workplace, and while we aren’t trying to rewrite company policy, HR departments should look towards integrating anti-racism into their working practices.

The pair are now trying to attract businesses in the region to get involved in the scheme, and are offering services, sponsorship and partnership opportunities to companies ranging from SMEs to large corporations.

Jed added: “Historically there is racism in the workplace, and we just want to promote the fact that everyone the same, just a person and a workmate.”

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Ruth Mitchell .