Equality Scheme

Equality and diversity are not interchangeable but are interdependent, there is no equality of opportunity if difference is not recognised and valued. Equality is about treating individuals fairly, supported by legislation designed to promote equality and eliminate discrimination and harassment. Diversity however refers to the recognition and valuing of difference for the benefit of the Council and the individual.

We are committed to equality of opportunity in our approach to service delivery, employment and community leadership. We are also committed to identifying, understanding and eliminating all barriers that prevent access to services, information and employment.

Public sector equality duty

We are required under the public sector equality duty to have due regard to the need to: 

• eliminate unlawful discrimination, harassment, and victimisation
• advance equality of opportunity between those who share a protected characteristic and those who do not
• foster good relations between those who share a protected characteristic and those who do not.

These are often referred to as the 3 aims of the public sector equality duty. To comply with the duty, a public authority needs to have due regard to all 3 of these aims. 

Here is a copy of our 2023 Workforce Breakdown report [PDF, 0.7MB]

Our equality scheme

Our new Equality Scheme for 2024 to 2028 [PDF, 0.4MB] was approved by Cabinet on 24 September 2024.

The purpose of our Equality Scheme is to: 

• set our equality goals for 2020 to 2024 and show how they support the Public Sector Equality Duty
• explain how we include equality in our services
• outline our equality responsibilities and the responsibilities of our employees, and elected representatives
• set up ways to review and track our progress on these equality goals.

Equality objectives 

The following equality objectives show how South Cambridgeshire District Council will meet the 3 aims of the Public Sector Equality Duty during the period 2020 to 2024. 

Objective 1: Understand the diversity within South Cambridgeshire. Take action to close the gap in outcomes between disadvantaged groups and the wider community.

For example by reviewing our policies, projects, and services to ensure equality considerations are embedded within service design and delivery.

Objective 2: Be an employer that values diversity and see the strength of a diverse workforce.

For example by celebrating and promoting diversity by marking key dates within the calendar including but not limited to Black History month and LGBTQ+ month and investigate other possible events 

Objective 3: Include protected groups in discussions about the future of the district.

For example by taking action to foster good relations in areas experiencing high levels of growth, including between people with protected characteristics and those from the wider community