Equality Impact Assessment: The process and resources

The Equality Impact Assessment (EIA) Process

Carrying out an EIA involves systematically assessing the potential (or actual) effect a policy/service/function has on people in relation to the ‘protected characteristics’ identified by equality legislation*. The first step is the completion of an EIA form, which is sent to the E&D Team and then feedback is returned to the policyholder. Where a potential adverse impact has been identified, feedback may include recommendations for amendments.

Equality Impact Assessment form

The EIA form will help you to structure your impact assessment, a new form will need to be completed for each policy you assess. Completed forms should be sent to the Equality and Diversity team.

Equality Impact Assessment Form

The EIA form includes guidance on how to complete it, however if you do have any questions on how to complete the Form, please email the Equality and Diversity team.

Guidance for VCEG/SMG/Council and PSMG

This guidance is intended for:

(a) members of VCEG/SMG/Council and PSMG - to raise awareness of their responsibilities regarding equality considerations when making decisions and recommendations; and

(b)  authors of reports for consideration by VCEG/SMG/Council and/or PSMG - to explain their responsibilities regarding carrying out Equality Impact Assessments of policies/services/functions which are new or subject to change/review prior to consideration by VCEG/SMG/Council/PSMG

Guidance for VCEG/SMG/Council and PSMG‌

* Protected characteristics as identified by the Equality Act 2010 are age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, and sexual orientation.