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. We have an Equality and Diversity Policy (2022) that drives our way of working to achieve this commitment.
We will review our activities and consider the impact they have on the communities we serve, by undertaking Equality Impact Assessments (EqIAs) where appropriate to identify any potential impacts. This will include developing action plans to mitigate any negative impacts that are identified.
The council has a vision for Equality and Diversity which is set out in South Staffordshire's Equality and Diversity Narrative 'Everyone Counts' 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, Corporate and Assistant Directors have 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. This is supported by the Council's corporate equality steering group who develop strategic plans and corporate work programmes to support equalities at South Staffordshire Council.
Diversity Reference Group
The Diversity Reference Group is representative of key Council services. The aim of the group is to quality assure Equality Impact Assessments and to provide a forum to consider the needs of underrepresented colleagues and ensure they have a voice and can share their expertise to help us continually improve
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 process. They represent the residents from our communities and play a crucial role in meeting our responsibilities under legislation.