Purpose

To approve the council's new equalities
objectives for 2025-29 following public consultation.

Decision

RESOLVED that the Council’s
equality objectives 2025-29 and the Equality Scheme that are
contained within Annex A be approved for publication.

Reasons for the decision

i.      
The Public Sector Equality Duty requires the council to publish one
or more specific and measurable equalities objectives every four
years. These are published in an Equality Scheme which outlines the
council’s strategy for advancing equality of opportunity and
demonstrates the areas where we are tackling inequality.
 

ii.    
The council’s existing Equality Objectives (2021-2025) have
been refreshed. The report proposes a set of equality objectives
for 2025-29 which take an intersectional approach, are rooted in
evidence drawn from both qualitative and quantitative sources and
have been developed through engagement with community and interest
groups, partners, elected members and employees over November and
December 2024.
 

iii.   
Although public consultation is not required, the council
prioritises transparency, inclusivity, and addressing inequalities.
To gather feedback and allow input on the final equality
objectives, a six-week public consultation was conducted through an
online survey.
 

iv.   
The council’s equality objectives advance equity, inclusion,
and opportunities for all communities. They are fundamental to the
council’s approach to developing and strengthening
communities, supporting cohesion and integration and tackling
racism and intolerance. The council understands and is committed to
the need to be working more actively with its communities.

Alternative options considered

Not to update and publish equality objectives.
This would be contrary to the
council’s commitment to equality,
diversity and inclusion and our legal
obligations.