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Exploring the use of positive action
The Forum for Research into Equality and Diversity, based at the University of Chester, are currently undertaking research into the use of positive action in the UK. The research intends to explore the use of the positive action provisions within the Equality Act 2010 by public sector employers in Scotland, England and Wales.
Positive action was first permitted in the UK by the Sex Discrimination Act and the Race Relations Act, which came into force in the mid-1970s. The scope for action at this time was very limited; however the Equality Act 2010 extended provision.
The general positive action provisions in the Equality Act seek to address disadvantage and under-representation among protected groups in employment, and in society more generally. Positive action measures are permitted if they are a proportionate mechanism to enable people sharing a protected characteristic to overcome or minimise disadvantage; or to meet the different needs of the protected group; or to enable people in protected groups to participate in an activity.
Although legislation specifically provides for and encourages positive action there are very few examples of such initiatives in practice.
The Forum is seeking to gather as many responses as possible, and would encourage public bodies across Scotland to consider taking part. All responses to the survey are anonymous. You can find more information about the survey, and also register to take part, using the link below.
FREE Public Sector Equality Duty Seminar for Trade Unions
The public sector equality duty came into force in April 2011 and replaced the gender equality duty. The new specific duties have just come into force in Scotland. Unions reps will need to know how to use the new duties for the benefit of their members and to ensure equality in the workplace.
This FREE seminar will look at:
- the principles of the public sector equality duty
- equality impact assessment and the role of union reps; and
- some practical examples of how union reps can use the duty.
Date & Venue
Friday 22 June 2012, Menzies Hotel, Glasgow G3 8AZ
Programme
9.00am Registration with tea and coffee
9.30am Welcome and introduction from Margaret Boyd, Chair, STUC Women's Committee
9.40am The principles of the public sector equality duty: what your employer should be doing
10.25am Equality impact assessment and how it can benefit members
11.15am Tea and coffee
11.30am How union reps can use the duty: some practical examples
12.30pm Looking to the future
12.40pm Questions
1.00pm Lunch
2.00pm Finish
Please register by clicking on the green 'Click and Register' button at the top of the page but if you are having problems contact Anna Ritchie on 0141 337 8146 or email aritchie@stuc.org.uk.
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