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4. Equality impact assessments

Equality impact assessments (EIAs)

We have recently introduced a new process for carrying out equality analysis or equality impact assessments (EIAs) on our policies and service changes or development proposals.

Carrying out equality analysis, for example by undertaking an EIA, is a way of considering the effect of the decisions we make on different groups of people in the community we serve.  It enables the trust to assess the equality implications of decision making on patients, service users and employees to ensure the best outcomes.

Undertaking equality analysis ensures that whenever the trust takes a decision which has implications for patients, service users or staff, due regard is given to 'protected characteristics' in the decisions taken by the trust.   This helps us to meet our duties under the Equality Act 2010 and the Public Sector Equality Duty (PSED). 

There are nine protected characteristics.  People who share these characteristics have traditionally faced discrimination.  These characteristics relate to age, disability, gender reassignment, pregnancy and maternity, race, sex, religion or belief, sexual orientation, marriage and civil partnership. 

As a public body, the trust must have due regard to the need to

• Eliminate unlawful discrimination, harassment and victimisation and other conduct  prohibited by the Equality Act
• Advance equality of opportunity between people who share a protected characteristic and those who do not
• Foster good relations between people who share a protected characteristic and those who do not 

Conducting equality analysis enables the trust comply with the public sector equality duty by giving us a framework to consider and address any unintended consequences for different groups of people and to identify if the decision will be effective for all concerned.  It helps us to treat patients and staff fairly and improves the way we work.