Public Sector Equality Duty
The Public Sector Equality Duty contained in the Equality Act 2010 requires the council in exercising our functions to have due regard to the need to:
- eliminate discrimination, harassment, victimisation and any other conduct that is prohibited by or under the Act
- advance equality of opportunity between people who share a relevant protected characteristic and people who do not share it
- foster good relations between people who share a relevant protected characteristic and those who do not share it
It is important that we consider how our decisions advance equality, inclusion, and diversity by removing or minimising disadvantages experienced by people because of their protected characteristics.
The protected characteristics covered by the Equality Act 2010 are:
- Age
- Disability
- Religion and belief
- Gender reassignment
- Marriage and civil partnership (but only in respect of eliminating unlawful discrimination)
- Pregnancy and maternity
- Race; this includes ethnic or national origins, colour or nationality
- Sex
- Sexual orientation
Intersectionality
Our approach to equality seeks to recognise the impact of intersectionality where people who share more than one protected characteristic are at risk of a multiplied disadvantage or inequity.
Socio-economic disadvantage and other disadvantaged groups
Alongside the 9 protected characteristics, we also consider socio-economic status and disadvantaged groups when making significant decisions. Through effective use of Equality Impact Assessments we make sure that we systematically think through the impact of our decisions on both residents and staff so that we meet the needs of our diverse community and that our commitment to fairness is translated into practice.
Equality and climate
Climate change is a key issue facing all of our communities. The impacts of climate change will affect us all, but we recognise the impact will be different on different people and communities. The ‘green thread’ that runs through our work as a council aligns closely with the actions underpinning the Equality Objectives, because climate action can help to address issues of fuel and food insecurity, accessibility, a changing economy, and health and wellbeing.