Lead Member – Councillor Lezley Picton, Leader and Portfolio Holder for Policy and Strategy, Improvement and Communications

Lead Officer – Lois Dale

RESOLVED:

That Cabinet agreed to the publication of Shropshire Council’s Equality Objectives Action Plan for 2024 to 2028, (as set out in Appendix A) in order to meet legal requirements for compliance with the Public Sector Equality Duty placed upon the Council through the Equality Act 2010.

The Portfolio Holder for Finance, Corporate Resources and Communities presented the report which sought Cabinet approval in order to enable compliance with specific duties under the Equality Act 2010. Approval would also facilitate demonstration of good practice in regard to equality.

Members were advised that the key actions from 2020-2024 included increasing understanding among officers and elected members about the challenges faced by people with protected characteristics and those at risk of social exclusion. Efforts included promoting positive community initiatives, marking commemorations and celebrations, and signing the Safe Ageing No Discrimination (SAND) covenant.

Members noted the new strategic equality action areas for 2024-2028.

Members emphasized the importance of the SAND covenant and its role in encouraging other organisations to sign up, promoting broader equality efforts.

RESOLVED:

That Cabinet agreed to the publication of Shropshire Council’s Equality Objectives Action Plan for 2024 to 2028, (as set out in Appendix A) in order to meet legal requirements for compliance with the Public Sector Equality Duty placed upon the Council through the Equality Act 2010.