Equality Impact Assessments

Introduction

Equality Impact Assessments or EIAs are a form of risk assessment that help decision makers understand how changes to the Service affect the nine protected characteristics identified by the Equality Act 2010. The information collected can also be used to see when changes may have an impact on the inclusion based objectives of the Service which can lead to the identification of an achieved target or the need for further improvement.

An additional benefit of the EIA process is the heightened awareness of Inclusion issues amongst employees. By carrying out an EIA everytime a change is made to a Service policy or procedure those responsible for the changes must give due consideration to Inclusion.

Updating the EIA

The introduction of the new Equality Act in October 2010 instigated a full review of the EIA process. This resulted in a new more robust template that incorporated the protected characteristics and identified the need not just to mitigate any detriment but to look at opportunities to advance equality. Training was carried out to ensure that all employees were fully conversant with the new process. The training was well received and further follow up work with individuals has been on-going to improve EIAs across the Service.

The Prevention & Inclusion department act as internal consultants and provide the support required to conduct robust equality risk assessments.

Publishing Our EIAs

As part of the Service's commitment to openness and transparency we will endeavour to publish EIAs here, on our website, that do not cover issues of a sensitive nature or that could compromise the security of the service or the safety of our employees.

You can find the currently available EIAs published below.