Equality and diversity

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

Our  equality objectives [63KB]  set out the areas of our work where we are focusing our efforts to achieve this.

We review these areas annually.  View the Equality Objectives Annual Report 2016-17 [592KB]
 

Equity impact assessments

It is advised that the completion of a West Berkshire Council Equity Impact Assessment is considered at the earliest stage of developing a policy, project or programme. This is so that evidence gathering can be integrated into project planning and ensure that there is a robust evidence base for decision-making. We also suggest periodic review and amendment to ensure that the assessment remains comprehensive, up to date and reflects changes as they occur.

Equality policy

The Equality Policy [254KB]   sets out our vision and commitment to equality of opportunity and respect for diversity. This is part of our role as a provider of services to the people who live, work and visit West Berkshire, as a significant employer in the local economy and in our community leadership role.

Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) framework

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

The framework has a Vision, Strategic Principles, and Objectives, with an accompanying Action Plan to support the delivery of the Council's Strategy.

To ensure this Framework is driven by the perspectives and experiences of those living and/or working in West Berkshire, The Equal Group undertook an engagement process which consisted of an EDI survey (including a separate easy-read version) and a series of five focus groups conducted in November and December of 2022. Please see the Engagement Report for further details.

Under the Equality Act 2010, the council is required to demonstrate due regard for equalities considerations, as set out under the Public Sector Equality Duty (PSED). This requires the council to consider the ways in which it is able to:

• 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

The development of this Framework intends to support the council in meeting its duty, which has a specific focus on the nine defined protected characteristics: sex, age, pregnancy and maternity, religion or belief, disability, gender reassignment, race, marriage and civil partnership, and sexual orientation.