Here at BREC we provice the following services

Advice Surgeries:

Advice surgeries are held at the Bedford REC offices three days a week from Monday – Wednesday from 10.00am – 2.00pm. Advice is provided on a variety of issues including: Passport and VISA applications, benefits enquiries, welfare, housing issues and basic immigration services, education, training, social services and employment. A full referral service is also offered. No appointment is necessary and clients are seen on a strictly first come first serve basis.

Consultancy Services:

The REC acts as a consultant to both public and statutory bodies on issues of race and diversity and supports employers with producing Equality and Diversity Policies and to recognise the value of a diverse workforce. The REC aims to give all communities represented throughout Bedfordshire a clear voice and opportunity to be heard on all issues relating to race and diversity. The REC will also facilitate consultations to assess the needs of the local communities and identify problems, concerns and comments.

In addition to consultation services, the REC also acts as an Independent Advisor on published Equality Schemes, Race Relations Act and Amendments and Equality and Diversity Policies for all local authorities and statutory organisations.

Casework:

The REC can take on casework up to Employment Tribunal Level for individuals who feel they have been discriminated against in the workplace. The service also includes a full referral service.

In many cases the REC will act as a support network to guide you through your internal grievance or harassment procedure, in more complicated cases we can work with yourself and your employer to try and resolve the issue and where necessary assist in preparing your case for Employment Tribunal.

Please note that the REC cannot represent you at Employment Tribunal, at this stage we will offer a full referral service.

If you felt that you have been or are experiencing harassment and discrimination in the workplace and would like to seek the guidance of the REC in dealing with the issue with your employer, then please contact us Mon-Weds 9:30-3:30 on 01234 350459 to speak to an Adviser or call outside of these hours to make an appointment.

Volunteering & Work Placements

Bedford REC believes in offering opportunities to all to help individuals in access to employment. We encourage volunteers to work with the REC in a number of roles including assisting with specific project and events. We particularly welcome volunteers with language skills who can assist in providing translation and interpretation services.

The REC also takes on work placements in partnership with Barnfield College and University of Bedfordshire.

BME Education Support Service:

The BME Education Support Service provides mentoring support to students from BME communities in order to try and raise attainment and aspirations of young people. The main aim is to try and break down barriers to learning and unlock education opportunities for students.

The REC is always looking for Mentors and students to participate in the project. If you would like to find out more then please contact the REC for further details on (01234) 350459

Bedfordshire Women’s Forum:

Bedfordshire Women’s Forum has now been established for over two years and has attracted members from all sections of the community to participate in community activities and to enable increased provision and access to services for local women. If you would like further details and information regarding forthcoming activities regarding the Bedfordshire Women’s Forum, please contact Glenis Orkisz.

Support to local Community Groups:

The REC has provided assistance and support to many local ethnic minority community groups. Support has included; assistance with funding applications, training, identifying premises, registering as a charity and assisting with setting up launch events. If you are looking to set up a group and would like assistance and support from the REC please contact us on (01234) 350459

Translation and Interpretation Services:

Bedford REC can assist in the translation of documents as well as provide interpreters. For further information regarding translation fees and Interpretation Services, please contact the office.