1. Equalities Duties Ruth Whatling Social Justice Analysis

2. Overview Introduction to equalities legislation The general equality duties The specific duties Any questions?

3. Equality

4. Equalities Legislation Sex Discrimination Act 1975 Race Relations Act 1976 Disability Discrimination Act 1995 Equality Act 2007

5. Public Sector Equality Duties Race Equality –Race Relations (Amendment) Act 2000 Gender Equality –The Equality Act 2006 Disability Equality –Disability Discrimination Act 2005

6. General Duty Requirements To eliminate unlawful discrimination To promote equality of opportunity and good relations between persons of different groups

7. Disability Equality Duty Take account of disabled person’s disabilities Encouraging disabled people to take a full part in public life

8. Specific Duties publish an Equality Scheme demonstrating how it intends to fulfil its general and specific duties; carry out impact assessments; make arrangements for gathering relevant information; develop an ‘action plan’; take the steps set out in its action plan, within three years; and publish an annual report.

9. Benefits Better targeted services, filling gaps Representation at all levels Better consultation More informed decision making Increased confidence in public services, especially among minority groups Better access to public services

10. Any questions? Scottish Government: http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Topics/Peo ple/Equality/PublicEqualityDuties Equality and Human Rights Commission: http://www.equalityhumanrights.com/e n/Pages/default.aspx Ruth.Whatling@scotland.gsi.gov.uk