Issue - meetings

To receive and consider the report of the Director of Change and Delivery.

To approve the Equality Framework as a shared policy document.

Councillor Bradley, Executive Member (Economic Development and Public Service Reform) presented the report of the Director of Change and Delivery which presents the Equality Framework to Executive Cabinet for approval.

The purpose of the framework is to set out the methods of embedding equality into the processes and practices of the Council. It firmly sets the foundations for the Council, as a community leader, in proactively spearheading equality, diversity, and inclusion. An equality framework is an essential means of meeting the Council’s statutory duties as, under the Equality Act 2010.

The equality policy was last refreshed in 2016. The proposed Equality Framework reflects the council’s most up to date approach towards equality and diversity as an organisation as well as best practice for local authorities.

Members discussed the link with the procurement strategy and recognised that this did not directly impact the Framework. An impact assessment will be undertaken as part of the procurement exercise. The council also has a Social Value Policy in place.

Decision: To approve the Equality Framework as a shared policy document.

Reasons for recommendations:

1.    To ensure we continue to meet our statutory duties under the Equality Act 2010 as a local authority,

2.    To update and set out a clear equality framework that reflects the development of shared services enabling a consistent approach,

3.    To continue to strengthen the Council’s commitment and advancement of equality

Other options considered and rejected:

The equality policy was last refreshed in June 2016. Continuing with the existing Equality Scheme has been considered. This has been rejected on the basis that, whilst comprehensive, the current policy does not reflect our most up to date approach towards equality and diversity as an organisation as well as best practice for local authorities.