Equalities Councillor Workbook

The IDeA has published this workbook to give a background understanding of equality issues. It offers an introduction to concepts, exercises and practical guidance to support ward councillors in their role as community leaders and representatives.

The last few years have seen many changes to equality obligations for local authorities. These include the public sector equalities duties on race, disability and gender, and the launch of the new Equality Framework for Local Government (EFLG). 

The EFLG builds on the old Equality Standard, but links equalities far more closely with other priorities for local government. These include the comprehensive area assessment (CAA) and the Customer Service Standard. 

The Equality Framework for Local Government

This workbook guides councillors through some of the things the equality agenda offers, using the EFLG. It also links equality to the wider remit of local authorities, with the overall aim of providing better services and supporting local people.

As the equality picture is evolving, this workbook will be updated. The details of the Equality Bill were published in trial format in April 2009. Once the bill receives its final reading, the final implications for local government will be established.

Equalities Councillor Workbook (PDF, 27 pages, 1.57MB large file)

Page published May 2009.