Building anti-racist workplaces
As the leading authority on mental health first aid, we know that racism has a lasting impact on a person’s mental health.
As part of our Race Equality Week (3-9 February) reflections, here are some thoughts on inclusive workplaces and helpful tips on building anti-racist workplaces.
What is Race Equality Week?
Race Equality Week is an ‘annual UK-wide movement…with the aim to change by uniting thousands of organisations into action to seriously address race inequality in the workplace.
Everyone deserves a safe, fair, and inclusive working environment. And yet:
- 70% of ‘ethnic minority employees reported experiencing or witnessing racism at work’ (1)
- Less than half of workers (46%) feel that senior leaders and managers are making an impact in tackling race inequality
What does an inclusive workplace look like?
Bianca Jones, MHFA England® Instructor Member and Managing Director of EDP Training, highlights the importance of why everyone should advocate for a fair and inclusive workplace:
Authenticity & Belonging
“An inclusive workplace is one where everyone feels valued, heard, and able to show up as their authentic selves. It’s about real action, fair opportunities, and creating a psychologically safe culture of belonging.”
Racism & Mental Health
“It’s essential to recognise the impact of racism on mental health and the additional stressors many employees of colour face.”
Everyday Actions Matter
“#EveryActionCounts is a powerful reminder that small, consistent actions make a huge difference. Real change happens in everyday moments — when we all collectively call out bias, demonstrate allyship, and advocate for equity.”
Organisational Allyship
“Organisations demonstrate true allyship by acknowledging global events, taking a clear stance on racial issues, providing safe spaces, and embedding race equity into wellbeing strategies to support People of Colour and Black employees.
Sustained Commitment
“True inclusion isn’t about grand gestures but a sustained commitment to fairness, opportunity, and psychological safety.”
Five ways organisations can ensure an anti-racist workplace
As part of MHFA England’s commitment to becoming an anti-racist organisation, we created specific guidance, with support from the Chartered Institute of Marketing and The King’s Trust, to help other organisations embed anti-racism into their workplace culture and practices.
- Review and evaluate workplace policies and protocols through an anti-racist lens
- Implement zero-tolerance policies towards racism and workplace harassment
- Invest in learning and development opportunities around anti-racism topics
- Create Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) for People of Colour and Black people
- Address lack of representation in leadership, project teams and decision tables
- and managers are making an impact in tackling race inequality
Ensuring a Safe & Inclusive Workplace for All
We all deserve to feel safe to bring our whole selves to work, without fear of judgement or consequence.
And yet, almost 1 in 3 employees (31%) have experienced at least one form of microaggression or discriminatory behaviour from their manager (3).
Brought to you by Mental Health First Aid England, My Whole Self is the campaign for workplace culture change. By bringing together diversity and inclusion with health and wellbeing, we can drive positive transformation in workplace mental health and performance.