Decision Maker: Cabinet

Outcome: Recommendations Approved

Is Key Decision?: Yes

Is Callable In?: Yes

Date of Decision: July 15, 2025

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

Content: 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.