Equality…… promoting a new approach Investing in your future Funded by the Equality Mainstreaming Unit which is jointly funded by the European Social Fund 2007-2013 and by the Equality Authority”

Project aims .. To create an awareness of equality mainstreaming in the agency To develop processes and systems to maintain equality as an agenda item after completion of the project To harness existing staff commitment and expertise to the equality mainstreaming agenda.

Participating units Five units volunteered to participate Adult Guidance, Kilmacthomas Business Training Centre, 2 Literacy Services in Dungarvan & Tramore Schools Completion Programme

Key steps …. Step 1: data was gathered in each unit by: Interviews to gather qualitative data on their current practice on equality mainstreaming Examining existing quantitative data from database bases and other documentation Developing baseline indicators for on going reviews of practice in the five units Step 2: Analysis of the data and providing feedback to each unit Step 3: Provision of training and action focused workshops to enable each unit to develop action plans

Key findings …nationality

Key findings … gender and age

Key themes from data collection .. Motivation for exploring equality Awareness of the nine grounds Aims and targeting Responsibility Ensuring equality Staff training Partners Barriers Involvement of participants

Basis of the analysis Does it seek to ensure no groups are put at a disadvantage and that there is no discrimination on any of the nine grounds? • Does it take account of the needs of each of the groups and its members in terms of its situation, identity and experience, including ensuring reasonable accommodation for people with disabilities? • Does it promote equality for each of the groups?

Key themes from data analysis …. Understanding and practice Potential and awareness Responsibility and policy Pro activity and barriers Outreach Disability access Promotion

Key outcomes .. Training provided for 15 staff (incl. AEO and CEO) Space on team meeting agendas for equality Equality on internal staff meetings agenda Learner committees established or revitalised to get feedback on the process of learning and their experience of it Advertising of courses will be undertaken in a way that language used does not discourage participants An exercise to document specific practical examples of good practice is being undertaken Baseline indicators template developed

Actions for future … pro-active targeted outreach On going staff training Increase the provision of equality policies and information in other languages Increased linkages with other agencies and community groups who work with members of the groupings Provide pilot courses specifically designed for men Explore changes to timetabling to ensure that courses are more family friendly