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Equality and Diversity

Equality Impact Assessments

It is a statutory requirement that the council show how it has assessed the impact that policies, decisions’ and procedures might have on age, disability, gender, gender reassignment, race, religion or sexual orientation assessments – referred to as ‘protected characteristics’.

Impact assessments give us an opportunity to:

consult with our customers
improve access and remove any barriers to opportunities
make sure that equality is considered in all the services we develop
develop action plans to improve services
ocument best practice and the things we do well
maintain and improve our performance against the Equality Framework for local government.
provide audit trails and evidence for any future inspection.

How do we carry out an equality impact assessment?

We identify who should be involved – a small group which can include partner organisations and service users, as well as departmental staff.
These individuals must have a good knowledge of equality and inclusion and the subject being assessed.
The group research the impact the new initiative may have on diverse groups and individuals.
This information is recorded on an assessment form.
The form is sent to a departmental equalities representative for approval.
Once approved the assessment is published on our web pages.

An Example

If the council are planning to move one of their services to a new building, they will need to consider what impact this may have on staff and customers.

Is the new building accessible for people with a disability? Does it have an access ramp and a hearing loop? Is the entry system accessible to all callers.
Does the move make it more difficult for certain communities to access the service?
Is the building on a bus route?
Are the work spaces suitable for staff who have a disability?