Equality Impact Assessments

 

Equality Impact Assessments

An EqIA is a systematic way of thoroughly assessing and monitoring whether existing or proposed policies, functions and/or services are likely to disadvantage individuals and/or groups of people who have already been identified as being at a disadvantage due to their race, disability, gender, age, sexual orientation and religion/belief.

How will they help the Forestry Commission (FC)?

Public bodies like the FC cannot know how their policies and services affect different groups unless we assess, consult and monitor. Equality Impact Assessments will allow us to ensure that:

•  By anticipating problems and making informed decisions based on the evidence used for impact assessments we are able to deliver a high quality service that meets the needs of our customers. In particular, to ensure that people are equally satisfied with our policies, the way they are implemented and the quality of our service.
• Policies are properly targeted; by engaging with all community groups, using appropriate methods, improving consultation and open two-way communication of our policies and services which will, in turn, reflect customer needs.
• Our workforce is more representative, at all levels, of the customer base we serve.
• We are aware of and understand the communities we serve.
• Internal policies which affect staff are fair and transparent and provide equality of opportunity for all, thus ensuring the retention of good quality staff, which, in turn, retains the corporate knowledge and expertise within the organisation.
• The FC is recognised for both it’s commitment to, and success in, promoting both equality and diversity, and sets high standards for those organisations with which we work.
• Good practice is developed and used in future to meet both the needs of our customers and staff alike, and to meet FC objectives and satisfy currenty equality legislation.

Why do Equality Impact Assessments?

EqIAs are required by law for race, disability and gender as determined by the Public Sector Duties of the Equality Act 2006.

Equality Impact Assessments completed to date:

• FC People Strategy
• Delivery Plan for Englands Woods and Trees
• FC Equality and Diversity Impact Assessment Summary
• FC Scotland: Climate Change Action Plan 2008-2010
• FC Scotland: Policy on the control of woodland removal
• FC Scotland: Scotlands Woodlands and the historic environment
• FC Scotland: Supporting Business Development
• FC Scotland: Access Behaviour Sub-Code

FC Equality Impact Assessment Guidance Notes (last updated 9/10/08)

Enquiries should be made to diversity@forestry.gsi.gov.uk