TRADE unions launched the Siarter Twf — meaning growth charter — at the National Eisteddfod in Wrexham today to improve the use of Welsh in the workplace.

The charter will create inclusive bilingual workplaces and support the use of the Welsh language at work, TUC Cymru said.

General secretary Shavanah Taj said: “Everyone should have the opportunity to use, learn, and develop their Welsh language skills at work. 

“We want to see an increase in inclusive bilingual workplaces where workers can use and develop their Welsh language skills and work in Welsh on a day-to-day basis.”

The trade union body said creating inclusive bilingual workplaces goes hand in hand with achieving growth in the use of Cymraeg — Welsh — at work and linguistic justice for workers in Wales.

“Trade unions have a critical role in safeguarding and promoting workers’ Welsh language rights and ensuring that workplaces are safe and free from prejudice and judgement,” Ms Taj said.

Deputy Welsh Language Commissioner Osian Llywelyn welcomed the launch of the Twf Charter.

“The use of the Welsh language in the workplace is one of our strategic priorities, and it is more important than ever for organisations to proactively plan for its everyday use,” he said.

Future Generations Commissioner Derek Walker said: “I am delighted that TUC Cymru has taken this innovative and proactive step to develop Siarter Twf to support the delivery of inclusive bilingual workplaces and growth in the use of Cymraeg at work. 

“This is in line with recommendation 25 in my 2025 report, which calls for all public bodies in Wales to develop a clear plan to increase the internal use of Welsh within public bodies.

“This allows staff to live their working lives increasingly through the medium of Welsh, fostering a stronger bilingual culture in the workplace.”

Wales TUC Cymru bilingual officer Dr Mandy James said: “Last year, we started our work with unions to look at their use of the Welsh language in their branches.

“This year, the Twf Charter has been endorsed by the general council. Using the Welsh language in the workplace also has benefits outside of it.”