Issue - meetings

As a Public Authority BCP Council have legal obligations under the Equality Act 2010 and the Human Rights Act 1998.

The commitment to equality is embedded in the Big Plan and Corporate Strategy which together set out our vision, mission, ambition, priorities and values that underpin the council and the delivery of its services.

An agreed review of the Equality and Diversity Policy first adopted by the Cabinet on 19 October 2019 has been undertaken.

In July 2021 BCP Council introduced an Equalities Footprint that contributes to monitoring and measuring progress on equality, and how well the responsibilities of the PSED and HRA are being met.

Key changes to the policy for Cabinet to note is the inclusion of the Equalities Footprint, and extensions to the local characteristics to now include children in care and care experienced young people, local business, community organisations, Military veterans, and Socio-economic status.

The Internal Governance Framework is further strengthened and has been expanded. The roles and responsibilities within it have been subject to change to reflect the increased commitment and adjustments that have been made to the framework.

RESOLVED that Cabinet: -

(i)            Approved the draft Corporate Equality & Diversity Policy and Governance Framework; and

(ii)            Noted the changes to roles and responsibilities

Voting: Unanimous

Portfolio Holder: Community Safety and Regulatory Services

Reasons

·      To reduce the equality gap and improve quality of life.

·      To make the governance framework and inclusive.

·      To provide added assurance of compliance with statutory duties.

The Portfolio Holder for Community Safety and Regulatory Services presented a report, a copy of which had been circulated to each Member and a copy of which appears as Appendix 'F' to these Minutes in the Minute Book.

Cabinet was advised that as a Public Authority BCP Council have legal obligations under the Equality Act 2010 and the Human Rights Act 1998, and that the commitment to equality is embedded in the Big Plan and Corporate Strategy which together set out our vision, mission, ambition, priorities and values that underpin the council and the delivery of its services.

Cabinet was informed that an agreed review of the Equality and Diversity Policy first adopted by the Cabinet on 19 October 2019 has been undertaken, and that in July 2021 BCP Council introduced an Equalities Footprint that contributes to monitoring and measuring progress on equality, and how well the responsibilities of the PSED and HRA are being met.

Cabinet was further advised that key changes to the policy for Cabinet to note is the inclusion of the Equalities Footprint, and extensions to the local characteristics to now include children in care and care experienced young people, local business, community organisations, Military veterans, and Socio-economic status, and that the Internal Governance Framework is further strengthened and has been expanded and the roles and responsibilities within it have been subject to change to reflect the increased commitment and adjustments that have been made to the framework.

The Portfolio Holder for Childrens and Young People advised that it was excellent that the council was recognising children in care and care experienced young people in equality issues in decision making for the future.

RESOLVED that Cabinet: -

(i)            Approved the draft Corporate Equality & Diversity Policy and Governance Framework; and

(ii)            Noted the changes to roles and responsibilities

Voting: Unanimous

Portfolio Holder: Community Safety and Regulatory Services