Equality Strategy 2024-2028
Decision Reference Number: WPCC4-0032
Lead Officer: Polly Reed
Chief Officer approval:N/A
Date: 31/10/24
Publication
Information in this form is subject to the Freedom of Information Act 2000 (FOI Act) and other legislation. Unless the information provided is covered by an exemption and stated to be either confidential or partly confidential, the information contained in the form will be published on the OPCC website.
Status: Non-confidential
Decision summary:
The Police and Crime Commissioner has been elected by the people of Warwickshire to carry out his statutory functions on behalf of each of them. As a public sector organisation, the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner (OPCC) has a legal obligation to consider all individuals when carrying out our day-to-day work, in shaping policy and delivering services. We will ensure we are meeting this requirement and the requirements detailed in the Equality Act 2010, when carrying out activities and the preparations to do so. This strategy sets out the approach we will take to meeting our legal requirements.
I confirm that my register of interests declaration is up to date and that none of my interests preclude me from making this decision.
Signature: P.Seccombe
Date: 18/11/2024
Supporting information
1. Background information: why do we need to make this
As a public sector organisation, the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner (OPCC) has a legal obligation to consider all individuals when carrying out our day-to-day work, in shaping policy and delivering services. We have a duty to ensure we are meeting this requirement, and the requirements detailed in the Equality Act 2010. This strategy sets out the approach we will take to meeting our legal requirements.
The PCC is committed to upholding equality as prescribed under the duty and further to it. The PCC has committed to the following:
- Demonstrating personal commitment to upholding equality in all areas of operation, both internally and when engaging with partners.
- Holding the Chief Constable of Warwickshire Police to account on equality issues within Warwickshire Police, both internally and when engaging with the public.
- Engaging with Warwickshire’s diverse communities to ensure their concerns and needs are being heard and reflected.
- Ensuring the work of the OPCC is inclusive and individuals are able to access services in accordance with their needs
- Seeking a diverse workforce which represents the communities the PCC and Warwickshire Police serve and to capitalise on knowledge and abilities required to deliver objectives
2. What additional documents are relied upon? Please provide a link or separate attachments.
OPCC Equality Strategy 2024-2028
3. What benefits will this bring, including financial, social or environmental benefits?
This policy sets out the expected actions and behaviours of the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner.
4. What is the impact of not approving the application?
Lack of clarity to ensure the duty of the Equality Act 2010 is met.
5. How much will it cost? (please provide cost breakdown, including any identified savings, and include where they have been approved)
None Identified.
6. Who has been consulted on this proposal?
The policy has been written to be fully compliant with all relevant legislation and statutory guidance.
7. Will this decision have an impact on any specific individuals or groups or communities?
This policy should support the office’s wish to treat all those who they affect with equality and fairness.
8. Does this decision have legal implications? Has legal advice been sought?
Legal advice has been sought.
Comments from the Chief Finance Officer
There are no financial implications or costs directly associated with this decision, but it will provide for strong governance and professionalism within the OPCC which will help to ensure that value for money and risks are reduced which could result in cost avoidance.
Comments from the Chief Executive and Monitoring Officer
This agreed policy is an essential element of the office of the Police and Crime Commissioner, providing evidence of sound governance processes and upholding that of equality.
