What We Do
Equality, Diversity and Inclusion
Equality and Diversity Group
In 2012 the Commission established a single Equality and Diversity Group which encompassed the work of the Women’s Development Steering Group and the Disability in Local Councils Stakeholder Group thereby building upon the success of two important equality initiatives: the Women in Local Councils initiative and the Disability in Local Councils initiative. The work of the Equality and Diversity Group also includes equality and diversity work in councils, including section 75 duties and equalities networks which promote dialogue and understanding across separate equality strands.
As nominated by Solace NI, the Equality and Diversity Group is chaired by Sharon McNicholl, Deputy Chief Executive and Strategic Director of Corporate Services, Belfast City Council. The Group consists of 20 members across a wide range of key stakeholders.
Equality, Diversity & Inclusion Strategy 2024 - 2026 (to follow)
This Strategy sets out the background of the Group, as well as our priorities as we continue to work with our stakeholders and seek to support and assist councils to ensure equality of opportunity and good relations as an employer, a service provider and a civic leader.
Diversity Ambassadors
One of the key elements of the Equality and Diversity initiative has been the appointment of a network of Diversity Ambassadors to actively promote the equality and diversity agenda in all councils. The network of Diversity Ambassadors is made up of Elected Members and Officers.
The Commission delivered a Diversity Ambassadors programme from November 2023 to November 2024 of best practice events and information sessions/networking events for Diversity Ambassadors to learn from each other and subject experts. The overall aim is that the Diversity Ambassadors would have a clear sense of what they have to do, where they will get support and an action plan to help them focus on the actions, they believe will meet the needs of their own council and the EDI initiative.
Programme of Events
Workshop 1, 29 November 2023 – Equality, Diversity and Inclusion: Setting the Context
Workshop 2, 21 March 2024 - Delivering for the Community: EDI and Service Provision
Workshop 3, 19 June 2024 - Equality, Diversity and Inclusion: Employability and Talent Management in Council and Community
Workshop 4, 10 October 2024 – Best Practice Event
Statutory Duty Network Group
A Regional Statutory Duty Network Group for Equality Officers consisting of representatives from the 11 Councils and the NIHE meet quarterly to share best practice and to work in partnership to implement statutory duties and to implement Disability Action Plans.
Guidance for Local Government Trans Equality
The purpose of the Guidance for Local Government Trans Equality is to provide managers and employees with practical information on workplace support. The Guidance was created with engagement of key stakeholders.