Equality & Diversity
Our Commitment
We're committed to helping to build a fairer South Staffordshire where the diversity of our local communities is celebrated and where equal opportunities are embraced. We are working hard to shape our services and employment practices to make sure that we are fully supporting, equal opportunities, the right to live free from discrimination, victimisation, and harassment and to give everyone the best possible environments to live, visit and work.
The council has a vision for Equality and Diversity which is set out in South Staffordshires Equality and Diversity Policy for a society that:
- Improves quality of life by removing discrimination
- Builds strong cohesive communities
- Acknowledges that diversity enhances the lives of all who live, work and travel to the area
Leadership Strategy and Policy
The Leader of the Council, all Elected Members, Chief Executive and Corporate Directors has responsibility for the strategic direction of equality and diversity in the Council. They also ensure equality is considered when key decisions are made that affect residents and employees.
Diversity Reference Group
The Diversity Reference Group (DRG) meets on a regular basis and is representative of all our service areas. The aim of the group is to monitor the progress on the Equality Framework for Local Government, review Equality Impact Assessments (EqIA) (including checking Portfolio Service Plans decisions) sharing knowledge/ information about equality. Members of the group are all responsible for advocating and promoting the equality agenda back in their own service areas.
Take a look at our Equality Champion job description which the group has developed (PDF Document 1.64MB)
Diversity Champions
The high level of commitment to equality and diversity is demonstrated by each service area nominating a designated Equality and Diversity Champion, who promote equality and diversity and make changes to ensure the council and district are fair and equitable for all staff and residents.
West Midlands Local Authority Equality Network (WMLAEN)
We are an active part of the West Midlands Local Authority Equality Network which meets every quarter. It includes all authorities in the West Midlands family group and various local partners. We share information, best practice, discuss updates from Government, benchmark against each other, and offer support to each other if needed. Over the years we have worked together to deliver training and learn from each other's experiences.
Our Councillors
Councillors are a vital part of the Equality and Diversity Policy process. They represent the residents from our communities and play a crucial role in meeting our responsibilities under legislation. Our member Equality and Diversity champion is Councillor Brian Edwards.