Equality impact assessments
4. North Dorset
Equality impact assessments are where we examine everything we do to ensure we have made every effort to remove any inadvertent discrimination.
Each service regularly undertakes a thorough assessment of its current or proposed policies, procedures, functions and services to determine whether there is, or is a potential for, an adverse impact on some sections of society, particular user groups or employees.
The adverse impact may be the result of not taking into account particular needs of people in relation to existing equalities legislation, or it may be a failure to appreciate the needs of vulnerable people not directly protected by the legislation, for example, those who live in isolated rural areas without access to public transport and other services.
In consultation with our partners and the public, we can ensure that we have done everything possible to remove any barriers to fair service provision and fair employment practice, and can ensure fair treatment and equal access to our services. This is integral to the ongoing improvement of our services. EqIAs are reviewed by the Service Review Committee and monitored by our Customer Access and Equalities Group which is chaired by the Chief Executive.
Further information about how we undertake EqIAs is contained in our Guidance on EqIAs and Toolkit.
Equality Impact Assessments are reviewed annually and available to download: