Nigel Farage Tells Council Workers to ‘Find New Careers’ if They Support Diversity or Climate Change

In a fresh wave of anti-EDI and anti-climate rhetoric, Nigel Farage has issued a stark message to thousands of local council workers across the UK: “Find alternative careers.”

The Reform UK leader made the comments as part of his pledge to launch a sweeping crackdown on what he calls “woke ideology” in local government. Speaking out against diversity, equity, and inclusion (EDI) roles and environmental initiatives, Farage claimed that taxpayer money is being wasted on “unnecessary” efforts to create inclusive workplaces or tackle climate change.

He announced plans to scrap all council EDI roles, calling them “divisive” and stating that “councils should go back to basics.” Farage also took aim at net zero commitments and climate change strategies, dismissing them as distractions from what he perceives as councils’ core responsibilities.

But many are alarmed. Local government workers, particularly those in roles supporting marginalised communities, are feeling under threat. One council officer, speaking anonymously, said: “We work to make services accessible to everyone, not just a select few. This feels like an attack on the very idea of fairness.”

At We Belong News, we believe that inclusion is not a distraction — it’s a foundation. It is not "woke" to care about the planet or the people who live on it. This kind of rhetoric risks pushing us backwards at a time when progress and compassion are more vital than ever.

Farage’s comments come ahead of upcoming elections, with many viewing the statement as an attempt to rally support by targeting progressive values. But for those working tirelessly to foster equity and sustainability within local government, the message is clear: your work — and your worth — is being questioned.

We’ll continue to stand with those who believe that a fairer, greener, more inclusive world is not just possible, but necessary.