Agenda item

The Cabinet considered a report of the Chief Executive which sought agreement of the updated Equality Policy (2024-2028) and review of the Public Sector Equality Duty (PSED) annual update 2023-24, prior to publication. The report also included an update on staff networks and the Changing Places toilets funding programme (for copy of report see file of minutes).

The Annual Review and Refesh all EM and employmentss must take responsibility for E&I in the provision of excellent council servicesa nd their workong relationship with colleagues, partners and members of the public.

In Moving the report, Councillor A Shield, Cabinet Portfolio Holder for Equality and Inclusion commented that inequality affected people in different ways. The Annual Review set out how the Council tackled and raised visibility. Councillor Shield referred to the expansion of the changing place toilet facilities installed at Locomotion, Hardwick Park, Raby Castle and Teesdale Leisure Centre. Such facilities made it easier for people with disabilities and their carers to plan and enjoy days out.and had been funded following a successful bid to the Government. This was just one example.

Equality analysis was embedded within the decision making process to understand equality impact across different groups. The Council always strived to engage and consult with all communities through organisations such as the Youth Council, Disability Partnership, Rainbow Alliance and staff networks.

Councillor T Henderson, Cabinet Portfolio Holder for Children and Young People’s Services echoed the comments of Councillor A Shield and the comprehensive work that had been undertaken and seconded the recommendation in the report.

Resolved:

That the recommendations in the report be approved.