Decision details

To consider the report of the Head of Neighbourhood Services, seeking approval for the new Equality Scheme.  Its purpose is to outline the actions the Council will take across all its business functions to help eliminate unlawful discrimination and to promote equality.  The Council’s Equality Policy was last updated in 2005 and is now being refreshed as part of the new Equality Scheme.

(i)  To approve, under delegated powers 6.1.22 and 6.1.25, the Council’s Equality Scheme 2009-12.

(ii)  To approve, under delegated powers 6.1.22 and 6.1.25, the updating of the Council’s Equality Policy. (The Equality Policy is Appendix 6 of the Equality Scheme 2009-12.)

The Council has a statutory obligation to consult on and produce Equality Schemes. 

A failure to produce and publish Equality Schemes would breach the Council’s statutory duties.

The Council could have produced and consulted on 3 separate Equality Schemes as some other Authorities have chosen to do. A single comprehensive Equality Scheme has been preferred as a more effective and value-for-money approach, as well as a better vehicle to engage public interest.