The Mill has obtained a damning internal report on Manchester City Council, as yet unreleased to staff. It found a toxic "boys' club" culture, where senior staff acted inappropriately to junior colleagues with impunity.

Managers spoke openly of "hatred of Muslims and non-whites." A young apprentice was repeatedly sexually harassed by a senior colleague until she was forced to leave the council — while “he was allowed to stay." Inside Manchester City Council 👇

This report was commissioned in light of our reporting last year, which uncovered the "sleazy" behaviour of senior officials at a 2024 awards ceremony. Read the full write-up by @jackdulhanty.bsky.social on the Mill.

Managers reportedly spoke openly of “hatred of Muslims and non-whites.” One worker recalled a young apprentice being repeatedly sexually harassed by a senior colleague until she was forced to leave the council. “He was allowed to stay,” they said of the offending staffer.

Exclusive: The Mill has acquired an internal report, to be released to council staff today, describing a culture of racism and sexual harrassment with impunity at Manchester City Council 👇👇👇(1/)

The review was commissioned after we revealed last year that senior officials behaved inappropriately toward young women on the council’s graduate scheme at its 2024 awards night.

Just 30% said those who raise concerns are treated fairly afterwards. The report describes a “shield” that lets well-established or high-performing staff get away with more.

Staff also accuse managers of speaking openly about their “hatred of Muslims and non-whites.” Others describe being called “stupid” or “incapable,” and one was reportedly referred to as the “team’s toilet.”

32% of MCC staff have seen inappropriate behaviour from leaders. Only 2% say it was ever properly dealt with.

One worker recalled a young apprentice being repeatedly sexually harassed by a senior colleague until she was forced to leave the council. “He was allowed to stay,” they said of the offending staffer. “She was interviewed by two male managers and needless to say she left.”

When we approached the council, CEO Tom Stannard said: “it is completely unacceptable that anyone should feel undervalued, unable to raise concerns, unsupported if they do or – in the worst cases – unsafe. These issues cannot and will not be ignored.”

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Worth a read (good work guys 👍)

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