Inclusive working practices
[ch 5: page 38]Established terms and conditions and workplace practices may need to be adjusted to accommodate practical and cultural requirements for certain groups of workers. Examples are extended leave, language needs and facilities for religious observance. There are also health issues that disproportionately affect certain ethnic groups for which there may need to be some special adjustments.
Addressing these needs may be less about race equality and more about inclusiveness for people of a certain national origin or religion/faith, though there can of course be a link between these characteristics. However, Unite’s Race equality guide for Unite negotiators warns it is “important not to make assumptions about an individual’s cultural identity. Speaking directly to an individual is always the best way to determine their cultural needs”.
It is also important to take care that other workers are not disadvantaged by any adjustments.