Email: clerk@levenparishcouncil.gov.uk

Call: 07725 301557

Equality and Diversity Policy

Reviewed July 2026 – Next Review July 2028

1. Introduction

Leven Parish Council recognises its responsibility to promote equality, diversity and inclusion in all aspects of its work. The Council is committed to ensuring that everyone — employees, councillors, volunteers, contractors and members of the public — are treated fairly, with dignity and respect.

This policy aligns with the Equality Act 2010 and the Public Sector Equality Duty, which require public bodies to:

  • Eliminate discrimination, harassment and victimisation
  • Advance equality of opportunity
  • Foster good relations between people who share protected characteristics and those who do not

The Council will ensure that equality principles are embedded in its employment practices, service delivery and community engagement.

2. Protected Characteristics

The Equality Act 2010 identifies the following protected characteristics:

  • Age
  • Disability
  • Gender reassignment
  • Race
  • Religion or belief
  • Sex
  • Sexual orientation
  • Marriage and civil partnership
  • Pregnancy and maternity

No person will be treated less favourably because of any of these characteristics.

3. Equality in Employment

The Council is committed to fair and transparent employment practices.

  • Recruitment, selection, training, promotion and career development will be based solely on merit and ability.
  • Job descriptions and person specifications will focus on skills and competencies essential to the role.
  • The Council will make reasonable adjustments to support disabled applicants and employees.
  • Health‑related questions will not be asked before a job offer is made, in accordance with Section 60 of the Equality Act 2010.
  • The Council will provide a working environment free from discrimination, harassment and bullying.
  • All staff and councillors will receive appropriate training on equality and diversity.

4. Equality in Service Delivery

The Council will ensure that all services are accessible and responsive to the needs of the community.

  • Services will be delivered without discrimination, harassment or victimisation.
  • Information will be provided in accessible formats where reasonably practicable.
  • The Council will consider the needs of different groups when planning and delivering services.
  • Feedback and complaints will be used to improve accessibility and inclusion.
  • The Council will work with partner organisations to promote equality and good community relations.

5. Public Sector Equality Duty

Under Section 149 of the Equality Act 2010, Leven Parish Council must, in exercising its functions, have due regard to the need to:

  1. Eliminate unlawful discrimination, harassment and victimisation.
  2. Advance equality of opportunity between people who share protected characteristics and those who do not.
  3. Foster good relations between people who share protected characteristics and those who do not.

The Council will demonstrate compliance by:

  • Considering equality impacts when making decisions
  • Publishing relevant equality information where required
  • Reviewing policies and practices regularly

6. Commitment to Equality and Inclusion

Leven Parish Council will:

  • Provide services that are accessible to all, free from prejudice and discrimination
  • Value people’s differences and enable all employees to achieve their full potential
  • Work actively to eliminate all forms of discrimination, both direct and indirect
  • Encourage participation and partnership in developing Council policies and practices
  • Promote equality of opportunity in all dealings with contractors, partners and voluntary organisations

7. Policy into Practice

To put this policy into effect, the Council will:

  • Ensure all policies and practices comply with equality legislation and good practice
  • Recruit and value a workforce that reflects the community
  • Provide equality training for councillors and staff
  • Monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of equality measures
  • Use socio‑economic data to inform decisions where appropriate
  • Maintain a clear complaints procedure for alleged breaches of this policy
  • Review this policy biennially or sooner if legislation changes

8. Monitoring and Review

The Clerk will monitor compliance with this policy and report annually to the Council. The policy will be reviewed every two years or earlier if required by legislative changes or best practice guidance.

9. Contact

For questions or concerns about equality or inclusion, please contact: 📧 clerk@levenparishcouncil.gov.uk 📞 07725 301557