A review into Brent Council’s equalities policies has been sanctioned following an employment tribunal ruling which found it guilty of racial discrimination against a former black employee.

Cllr Michael Pavey, deputy leader of the council has been tasked to lead the scrutiny into the council’s human recourses equalities procedures, following the damning verdict by Watford Employment Tribunal.

It heard the council acted in a manner that destroyed relationship of trust and confidence with ex-head of learning and development, Rosemary Clarke - who was forced to quit her job because the ordeal.

In addition, Cara Davani, the director of human resources, who was Ms Clarke’s line manger, had pushed for her suspension following a series of disagreements between the two of them in 2012, according to the tribunal.

The council will seek outside experts to help in the cross-examination, and look to learn from best practice at other local authorities.

The review will include a survey of equalities policies and aims to include views from current employees.

Cllr Pavey, who also represents the Barnhill ward, said: “The diverse nature of Brent Council’s workforce is one of our core strengths and, importantly, is reflective of the diversity of local people.

“Therefore, it is vital that we shine a light on our existing policies and procedures to ensure that we constantly strive for best practice to support people of all backgrounds to achieve their full potential.

“I am committed to leading a full and detailed review to determine where improvements can be made. I will be working closely with colleagues inside the council and external experts to achieve this and will ensure there is involvement from members of the Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic communities throughout the process.”

The first draft of the report is scheduled for December 2014, with a commitment to the delivery and implementation of individual action plans in January 2015.