Unions develop new ways to tackle workplace racism

Unions and the TUC are finding new ways to tackle racism at work. One such measure are the "prompt cards" which help shop stewards to deal with race discrimination cases. The cards, which ask a series of questions on race discrimination, have been produced by the CWU communications union in the Midlands, with the help of the TUC, the Commission for Racial Equality and Racial Equality Councils (RECs).

The idea for the card came out of a TUC seminar bringing together trade union officials and their counterparts in the RECs. TUC Midlands regional policy and campaigns officer Alan Weaver said: "We had to recognise that even some experienced stewards might not have the knowledge and skills to act on a case. That was something we had to address."

Another innovative step is the TUC's Tackling racism online course for union reps and learning reps, which the TUC describes as having "a brilliant response" from reps.

Launched at the end of last year by the TUC education service, the free course is being run over 10 weeks. The course is ongoing throughout the year so that reps can register at any time.

TUC education and training officer Jackie Williams said: "We've had a brilliant response. So far 150 people have applied, and we're really pleased to see that at the moment more than half of applicants are women."

* An online registration form can be completed at www.learningservices.org.uk/tacklingracism or contact Jackie Williams on 020 7467 1253; [email protected]