Equality Act – new protected characteristics Putting principles into practice

Cards on the table What does the law require for ‘new’ protected characteristics? What will be required of me? Should I do anything differently? Where do I find the time? How will I know when I’m applying the law? How on earth can I please everyone’s needs? Dealing with unfinished business & uncertainty.

Objectives of the session Focus on public sector equality duty Greater understanding of how the Act applies to ‘new’ protected characteristics. Seeing how new obligations translate into practical activity How current activities already demonstrate compliance An awareness of the barriers and how they can be overcome

‘New’ separately identified protected characteristics Age Religion and Belief Sexual orientation Gender reassignment Marriage & civil partnerships Pregnancy & maternity

New protected characteristics – changes to definitions Age. All ages covered by most of the legislation but goods and services discrimination only covers those aged 18+ Gender reassignment. Applies to all trans people regardless of medical procedure Religions must have clear structure and belief. Philosophical beliefs must be genuinely held. Other characteristics fairly self-explanatory

Coverage of the duty Eliminate discrimination, harassment, victimisation and other provisions Advance equality between those sharing particular characteristics and those that don’t. This includes removing or minimising disadvantage, addressing different needs, and encouraging participation in public and active life. Foster good relations including tackling prejudice

General and specific duties The above are general duties and apply to a wider range of organisations including charities and private organisations undertaking public functions. Assembly Government has the power to impose specific public sector duties on relevant public authorities and is currently consulting on provisions (deadline 17 December)

Content of the specific duty Must be flexible and proportionate Evidence base. Clear understanding of the communities served Consultation and involvement to secure fit for purpose outcomes Transparency on objective setting and reporting Leadership and effective resource use

Timelines 6th April 2011 Proposed date for specific duties to come into force 2nd April 2012 Publishing equality objectives through equality schemes (only applies in Wales)

Workshop themes Engagement Barriers Creative service delivery

1. Engagement Noting the difference between consultation and involvement Flexibility and fleetness of foot ‘Horses for courses’ Engaging with the seldom heard and seldom listened to voices

Let us share 1 Examples of how you have engaged with seldom heard voices. What are the challenges and how have you overcome them?

2. Challenges & overcoming barriers What barriers are you currently experiencing? What further barriers are you envisaging?

Let us share 2 What are the main barriers you face in promoting equality on grounds of age, religion & belief, and sexual orientation Barrier busters – identify 6 actions that help to overcome the barriers other than...

Delivery through partnerships Procurement, contracting, and accountability Who leads on equality

Let us share 3 What examples do you have of working positively Between disciplines and departments in the same authority Between neighbouring authorities Across the public sector In partnership with ‘not for profit’ and private sectors