EQUALITY ACT
The Equality Act In April 2011 the Public Sector Equality Duty came into force in England, Scotland and Wales. This duty replaces the existing race, disability and gender equality duties.
- The Equality Act says that Schools and all organisations must:
- Encourage good relations and ensure everyone has equality of opportunity
- Eliminate unlawful discrimination, harassment and victimisation
- Help make sure everyone has an equal chance to make the most of their lives and talents
Also, the Equality Act aims to make sure that people with certain characteristics are protected from discrimination. The eight protected characteristics/groups are:
- Age (as an employer – but not applicable to pupils)
- Disability
- Sex
- Gender reassignment
- Race
- Pregnancy and maternity
- Religion or belief
- Sexual orientation
In line with our duties under the Equality Act, we have assessed our existing practices in relation to equality and published an Equality Data Report. This will be updated annually. We have also published Equality Objectives (see below) to help us focus on further improvements.