Agenda item

Joint report of the Head of HR, Interim Artistic Director and Director of Innovation and Engagement.

The Board considered a joint report of the Head of HR, Interim Artistic Director and Director of Innovation and Engagement providing the annual Equality and Inclusion update on the work underway to develop a new strategy for 2020 onwards.

The Chair highlighted the paramount importance of the subject now more than ever and wanted the Barbican and Board to be as inclusive as possible.it was acknowledged that whilst lots of work was happening, there was still more to do.

Officers confirmed a successful Equalities and Inclusion Subgroup meeting took place last week and the next steps would be to take forward the short-term actions of the report. This included ensuring there were safe forums, support for any incidents or microaggressions, increased conversations and dialogue across all staff members building trust and key training for Heads. A Task & Finish Group would also be set up shortly with terms of reference that were not oversubscriptive to assist but allow ownership.   

A Member stated that the right balance was needed to steer the process an ensure staff were given agency to inform policies and ensure things were done differently in future.

In response to a query asking for a timeline, Officers confirmed the Taskforce would hopefully be established in the next two weeks and the recommendations completed by the end of 2020. A new Equality and Inclusion group would be established to hold the Centre to account. It was noted that the Centre would also coordinate with the City Corporation’s broader efforts and the Tackling Racism Taskforce.

A Member was keen to engage and consult in the process and was invited to join the Taskforce.

RESOLVED – That Members review the information presented.