EHRC guidance on how to consider equality in policy making

A guide for public authorities and organisations delivering a public function in England has been issued by the Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC) in the form of a 10-step guide on How to Consider Equality in Policy Making.

The equalities watchdog points out that public functions may be carried out by private and voluntary organisations, eg when a private company manages a prison or when a voluntary organisation takes on responsibilities for child protection.

The aim of the guidance is to help organisations comply with the Public Sector Equality Duty (PSED) as set out in the Equality Act 2010.

“The term ‘policy’ refers to any activity in your organisation,” the EHRC explains. “It should be understood to cover the full range of your policies, provisions, criteria, functions, practices and activities, including the delivery of services.”

The 10-step guide includes:

·       Practical guidance on how to comply with the law and how to demonstrate best practice

·       Tips and reminders on legal principles

·       Advice on how to keep equality considerations relevant and proportionate

·       Examples to illustrate how organisations can implement the suggested steps.

To meet the needs of people with certain protected characteristics, the EHRC highlights, public bodies may consider treating some people more favourably than others. Public bodies must also have due regard to the requirement to take steps to meet the needs of disabled people.

It has produced separate guidance for Wales and for Scotland.

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