Equality and diversity

Everyone deserves to live in a community where people get along with each other, no-one feels excluded and everyone has a chance to play a part in local life.
 

Equality policy

The  Equality Policy [574KB]  sets out our vision and commitment to equality of opportunity and respect for diversity. This is part of the council's role as a service provider to people who live, work and visit West Berkshire, an employer and in our community leadership role.

Overall, the policy aims to:

• eliminate unlawful discrimination
• promote equality of opportunity
• promote equality of access
• demonstrate that we value diversity
• promote good relations between diverse communities

Equity impact assessments

When developing a policy, project or programme, our staff are advised to complete a Equity Impact Assessment. This makes sure that collecting evidence is part of project planning and that there is a good evidence base for making decisions. Assessments should also be reviewed and amended to make sure that the assessment remains complete, up to date and reflects changes.
 

Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) framework

West Berkshire Council commissioned The Equal Group (TEG) to develop an Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) framework [315KB] , informed by the lived experiences of residents.
 

Under the Equality Act 2010, the council must show it has considered equality, as set out under the Public Sector Equality Duty (PSED). The EDI framework aims to support the council in meeting its duty.

The council must consider how it can:

• eliminate unlawful discrimination, harassment and victimisation and other conduct prohibited by the Act
• advance equality of opportunity between people who share a protected characteristic and those who do not
• foster good relations between people who share a protected characteristic and those who do not