TUC Equality Audit 2026
Most of the unions asked (79 per cent) say they take some action to ensure that their materials indicate a diverse membership or audience and that language is accessible and does not cause offence to particular groups (this is slightly down on 82 percent in 2022).
Making materials more accessible
Unions mentioned the use of alt-text and captioning, subtitles for videos, BSL interpreters, and website accessibility tools to ensure materials were accessible.
- Accord: Reported launching “a new online magazine which is suitable for use with screen readers”, replacing an older recording format which was “large and impossible to navigate around”.
- PFA: uses subtitles in comms materials on social media and filmed resources.
- UNISON: produced Representing Deaf (Native BSL) Members: A steward’s guide and Representing Disabled Members: A steward’s guide.
Using different languages
Several unions noted that their materials were available in Welsh. Other examples included:
- EIS reported that, although it does not routinely translate materials, some of its Pay Attention campaign materials in 2022 were published in a number of languages “to engage with communities of parents”.
- PCS using tailored communications and translators in campaigns involving migrant workers or workers for whom English is a second language. Its website accessibility tool includes translation into more than 100 languages.
Initiatives linking two or more equality strands
Amongst details on intersectional initiatives were:
- Equity which highlighted its campaign on “equal hair and make-up provision for Black women and other women with textured hair in the performing arts.”
- Unite that reported a “Black women’s network to encourage activism amongst our BAEM/women’s membership” and a “Black women’s maternity/health campaign”.
- The National Union of Journalists highlighted its Show Us the Money campaign on equal pay, linked to gender, ethnicity and disability pay gap reporting.
Monitoring impact of equality campaigns
Several unions reported using formal equality impact assessment processes or checklists when developing campaigns.
- PFA reported undertaking “Impact reports for “AIMS” and Professional Player to Coach scheme programmes”.
- Aegis reported that its D&I Working Group reviews campaigns both before and during their implementation.
Helping branches with diverse accessible communications
Several unions reported providing guidance, templates or style guides to help branches produce accessible and inclusive communications.
- NEU provides guidance on accessibility, including the use of hybrid meetings and suitable meeting venues.
- NAHT reported that its new regional equality reps are supported to help branches make events and communications more accessible and representative.
Stay Updated
Want to hear about our latest news and blogs?
Sign up now to get it straight to your inbox