Race Equality Week: Moving Forward Together for a More Inclusive Workplace
Discover how we are supporting Race Equality Week
Creating a workplace where everyone feels valued, respected, and empowered is key to building an inclusive culture. Race Equality Week offers a chance to turn this commitment into action. With this year’s theme, “Every Action Counts,” even small steps can drive meaningful change. Find out how we are working towards a more inclusive future.
What is Race Equality Week?
At Avove we are dedicated to creating a workplace where everyone feels valued, respected, and empowered, regardless of their background. We want our colleagues to feel a true sense of belonging and know their voices matter. This commitment aligns with the vision of Race Equality Week, a nationwide movement bringing together hundreds of thousands of organisations and individuals to break down the barriers to racial equality.
This annual UK-wide initiative isn’t just about starting conversations; it’s about action. It’s about turning intention into meaningful change. This year’s theme, “Every Action Counts,” reminds us that every step, no matter how small, brings us closer to workplaces where equity and inclusion are the norm, not the exception.
Why Race Equality Week matters
Despite progress, the journey to true racial equality is far from over. Recent UK statistics from 2024 emphasise the need for urgent action:
- 64% of employees say their leaders are committed to tackling race inequality, but only 46% believe those efforts are making a tangible impact
- 73% of people have experienced their names being mispronounced at work. For many, this isn’t just an inconvenience, as 43% say it feels disrespectful, while 35% note that it negatively affects their sense of identity
These numbers reveal more than just statistics; they tell the stories of countless individuals navigating daily challenges. They underscore the need for intentional, consistent action to create workplaces where everyone can thrive.
The 5-Day Challenge
At Avove, we’re asking our colleagues to join the 5-Day Challenge, a powerful initiative designed to inspire reflection, learning, and action. It’s quick, impactful, and requires just five minutes a day:
- Day 1: Intersectionality – Explore how overlapping social identities and inequalities shape experiences
- Day 2: Recognising Privilege – Reflect on your own advantages and how they can be used to uplift others
- Day 3: Inclusive Language – Learn how the words we use can create connection instead of division
- Day 4: Code Switching/Masking – Understand the pressure many feel to adapt or hide their authentic selves at work
- Day 5: The Big Promise – Commit to continued learning and meaningful action to support racial equality
Last year, 82% of participants reported that the challenge helped tackle race inequality.
We understand that achieving true race equality is not a one-time effort but an ongoing journey. We are committed to continuously learning, improving, and taking meaningful action to ensure everyone feels a true sense of belonging within our company. By listening, challenging inequalities, and implementing positive change, we strive to create an environment where all voices are heard, respected, and valued.
Every action counts
The theme of Race Equality Week is clear: change doesn’t happen by accident; it occurs when individuals and organisations unite in action. Every conversation, every promise, and every effort counts.
We are committed to ensuring that everyone at Avove feels empowered to bring their authentic self to work. We’re not just laying the pipework for infrastructure; we’re also laying the foundation for an inclusive, fair, and welcoming workplace for all. Now is the time to take action, speak up, and make a difference.
Interested in joining a business that cares?
Visit our careers page to explore how you can become part of a team dedicated to making a real difference.