Civil servants across the government are undergoing training, costing upwards of £160,000, aimed at identifying microaggressions, with a particular focus on recognising subtle signs such as looking at phones or rolling eyes, which could indicate instances of sexual or racial discrimination. The workshops, facilitated by private sector consultants since 2021, are designed to foster transparency and inclusion within the civil service.

Despite the well-intentioned nature of the initiative, feedback from civil servants who have participated in these workshops has been notably critical. Government officials have been instructed to nod their heads as a means to improve inclusion, prompting questions about the effectiveness of such strategies.

Conducted by a Department for Education agency, the sessions have come under scrutiny for their cost, with more than £1,000 spent per worker. This expenditure has sparked criticism from various quarters, including former Cabinet minister Sir Jacob Rees-Mogg, who expressed scepticism about the value of such initiatives. He remarked, "My eyes are rolling at this news – and it is about time for some macro-aggression on behalf of taxpayers who pick up the bill for all this folderol."

The notion of micro aggressions, subtle and often unintentional actions or comments that can marginalise or discriminate against certain individuals or groups, has gained prominence in discussions around workplace culture and inclusivity. However, the application of such training and the associated costs have raised eyebrows.

As civil servants navigate these workshops, concerns persist regarding the practicality and impact of identifying microaggressions in day-to-day interactions. The initiative reflects an ongoing effort within the civil service to address issues of discrimination and promote a more inclusive working environment. Yet, the significant expense and critical feedback suggest a need for careful examination and refinement of these training programs to ensure they align with broader goals of efficiency, accountability, and taxpayer value.

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