Sutton has become the first authority in the UK to be awarded Silver Trailblazer Status by Race Equality Matters.

The award recognises organisations who have made a “meaningful impact on tackling race inequality.”

The council says it has achieved the status by listening to colleagues’ experiences and through educational activities.

It has overhauled its recruitment processes and implemented an inclusive language guide.

It has proven so successful that it has been shared with schools and voluntary and community sector organisations.