Case Study
Citizens Advice Race Matters Development Programme
The Race Matters Development Programme demonstrates significant positive outcomes over the 12-month period.
The programme successfully increased confidence and skills for participants of colour, their line managers, and sponsors. It helped address systemic racism and develop more inclusive workplace practices within Citizens Advice.
- Participants: Increased ability to communicate effectively, build confidence, and take ownership of their careers.
- Line Managers: Developed awareness of barriers faced by people of colour, with an emphasis on networking, feedback, and challenging systemic racism.
- Sponsors: Greater confidence in addressing systemic racism and supporting colleagues through sponsorship.
- Metrics: Substantial growth in confidence across all three groups demonstrated through pre/post surveys, and qualitative feedback highlighting enhanced allyship behaviours and increased awareness.
Results
- Participants’ comparative pre & post programme survey reports show:
- 12% increase in being their authentic self at work.
- 13% increase in feeling confident to talk to manager about career aspirations.
- 16% increase in their ability to talk openly with manager about race in the workplace.
- 25% increase in their ability to leverage networks successfully.
- 29% increase in comfort asking for feedback.
- 30% increase in communicating for career success.
- 67% of the participants found the sponsorship to be a highlight of the programme.
Feedback
“It has helped me in being deliberate and proactive in my support – whether that be recognising the impact of wider world issues on [my colleagues of colour] lived experience, talking exclusively to race in 121’s and check-ins and recognising need to create and support the creation of safe spaces.”
“I have proactively identified how I can support addressing systemic racism and cultural issues and I have shared my learning with my team, encouraging them to be active ally’s. I also have a better understanding of the terminology so I am using the recognised terms more confidently now.”
“I’m much more assertive around my needs and persistent in pursuing them. Better at having difficult conversations and aware of the need to focus on my own development and progress”.
