Press Release The Equal Group GLA Anchor Support Programme
The Equal Group and Greater London Authority Launch Anchor Support Programme for Further Education Providers
A new programme to support more Londoners into ‘good’ jobs has been launched today by the Greater London Authority (GLA) and The Equal Group. The anchor support programme is a pioneering initiative aimed at supporting 20 London-based further education providers in meeting two key expectations set out by the Mayor of London:
- Becoming good employers that are inclusive and representative of the communities they serve.
- Meeting or working towards the Mayor’s Good Work Standard (a free accreditation programme that provides employers with a set of best employment practices alongside information and resources to help achieve them), including becoming accredited Living Wage employers paying the London Living Wage (an independently calculated, voluntary hourly rate based on the costs of living).
Howard Dawber, Deputy Mayor for Business and Growth, said:
“I’m pleased to announce the launch of our Anchor Support Programme today. It’s vital that all Londoners are represented in the adult education system.
“The Mayor is committed to embedding good work across the capital, ensuring London’s skills offer best serves its diverse communities. As part of this commitment, we have partnered with The Equal Group to deliver a free, tailored support programme for colleges and training providers, helping them build an inclusive and representative workforce.
“I’m pleased that 19 providers have joined the Anchor Support Programme to start their exciting journey to progress towards the Mayor’s Good Work Standard. Together we can continue building a fairer London for everyone.”
Being an inclusive employer is both ethical and practical. Inclusivity helps create a workplace where everyone feels respected, valued, and empowered to contribute their best. Additionally if your workforce mirrors the diversity of the community, your organisation is better equipped to understand and meet the needs of those it serves. Employees who come from various backgrounds can provide unique insights into the preferences, challenges, and expectations of different groups within the community.
Claire Gardner, Managing Director of Dynamic Training said:
"Dynamic Training is thrilled to join the Anchor Support Programme as it underscores our commitment to the welfare, support, and inclusion of all our staff. This programme will enable us to align our strategies effectively, ensuring that every member of our team has access to the opportunities and support they need to thrive."
As London's communities continue to report diverse needs and skills gaps, it is crucial to address the barriers faced by disproportionately impacted groups such as disabled individuals, black and ethnic minorities, and those with caring responsibilities. Understanding these challenges is essential for tailoring support and ensuring access to further education.
Further education providers play a vital role in bridging skills gaps, driving social mobility, and offering lifelong learning. However, as key community employers, it is also crucial for these providers to lead by example in equality, diversity, and inclusion (EDI).
Mac Alonge, CEO & Founder of The Equal Group, commented:
“The launch of this programme represents a key opportunity for us to add value to an education and skills sector that has faced years of underinvestment as well as resourcing, financial, and other operational challenges. We are pleased to see a continued commitment from the Mayor and his team in ensuring they are providing the tools and support that organisations need to do the right thing, which will contribute to the growth and success of the UK’s most prominent region. This comes at a pivotal time for London and will demonstrate what can be achieved through public sector and private sector partnerships. We are thrilled to be extending our great working relationship with the Mayor of London and the wider GLA team.”
The Anchor Support Programme, in collaboration with the GLA, aims to help further education providers align with the Mayor’s ambitions and emerge as EDI leaders in London’s education sector. The programme seeks to improve employee satisfaction, retention, and progression while fostering inclusive work environments. Providers will receive the necessary support, tools, and actionable plans to excel as EDI leaders.
The Anchor Support Programme Includes:
- Workshops: Dedicated time for providers to apply toolkit content, share case studies, best practices, and learn from experts.
- Coaching Sessions: Assistance in implementing toolkit content and addressing unique organisational challenges.
- Bespoke Action Plans: Tailored strategies for each provider.
- Community of Practice: Opportunities to share experiences, successes, and challenges with peers.
- Network of Peer Support: Building connections with other providers on similar journeys.
Virginie Ramond, Chief Executive of London Skills and Development Network said:
“London Skills & Development Network (LSDN) today announced its participation in the Greater London Authority’s (GLA) Anchor Support Programme as part of its ongoing commitment to equality and inclusion. By joining this programme, led by the Equal Group, LSDN aims to do its part to contribute to a more equitable and fair London for all.”
Dipa Ganguli, Principal/CEO of Working Men's College said:
“We are delighted to be selected on the Mayor’s Anchor Support programme. The three strands resonate with our strategic priorities and the support enable improvement to enhance our reputation as an employer of choice”
Gillian Dewsbury, Business Excellence Manager of L and F Training Ltd said:
“L&F Training has joined the GLA Anchor Support Programme, because we are committed to supporting the Mayor's expectations (as laid out in the Skills Roadmap for London). As part of L&F's commitment we have worked towards and achieved the Mayor's Good work standard (including London Living Wage accreditation) and are looking forward, through this Programme, to building and strengthening L&F's culture and reputation as an inclusive and representative employer, which believes and promotes the Mayor's Good Work Standard.”
If you are interested in participating in this programme, please complete the expression of interest form.
Providers will be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis. For any questions, please email: gla-anchor-support@theequalgroup.com
About The Equal Group
The Equal Group work to identify and eliminate bias from the workplace, using data, technology and supported by advanced strategic consulting.Based in Birmingham, the company and management team have been featured and quoted in numerous publications including The Times, BBC, FT, Sifted and The Muse.
Website: www.theequalgroup.com
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LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-equal-group
