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Equality Standard for Local Government

The Equality Standard for Local Government was designed to help local authorities mainstream equality issues in service delivery and employment and to provide a way for us to measure our progress.

Using five levels, local authorities were encouraged to introduce a comprehensive and systematic approach to dealing with equalities. These levels cover all aspects of policy-making, service delivery and employment.

The five levels are:

Level 1 : Commitment to a comprehensive equality policy
Level 2 : Assessment and consultation
Level 3 : Setting equality objectives and targets
Level 4 : Information systems and monitoring against targets
Level 5 : Achieving and reviewing outcomes.

The Equality Standard for Local Government is currently being reviewed, with proposals in place to create a new Equality Framework for Local Government which will enable local authorities to continue to measure their progress with regard to equalities, but will also enable them to identify local needs, priorities and actions.

Currently, Stafford Borough Council have obtained Level One of the Equality Standard and are aiming to obtain Level Two by the end of March 2009.

Useful Links:

Equalities and Human Rights Commission (External link)

Government Equalities Office (External link)