GMCA 1124- Manchester Civic Leadership Programme

No

Description:Greater Manchester's ability to get to grips with racial inequality is hampered by the lack of representation of racial minorities in the organisations that have the power to act. Greater Manchester Independent Inequalities Commission 2021

The Black Lives Matter Movement and pandemic highlighted and further worsened the racial discrimination and inequalities within our society, compounded by a lack of civic engagement and under-representation of people experiencing racial inequalities. The Mayor of Greater Manchester has expressed commitment to a civic leadership programme for racially marginalised people for the duration of his term, championing it as a key driver to diversifying civic leadership and creating inclusion and tackling inequalities across wider society.

The Greater Manchester Civic Leadership Programme was launched in 2022, and over its first two years has supported 58 participants to develop their personal skills, confidence and knowledge of the roles and responsibilities of public appointees, as well as an insight into the systems and procedures of public bodies, by hearing from inspiring leaders and observing practices. This has empowered participants to engage with and join public bodies and political offices within Greater Manchester and inspire and encourage other people within their communities to actively engage.

The programme has the full support of all Greater Manchester Council Leaders, with practical support provided by senior officers. This has helped barriers be identified and addressed, enabling participants to take up and sustain future positions in places that are inclusive. Furthermore, improving the pathway for programme participants will challenge and change pathways for all racially marginalised people to take on civic leadership positions.