Issue - meetings

To receive an update on the Workforce Strategy.

The Committee gave consideration to a report by the Strategic HR Manager (a copy of which is appended in the Minute Book), which contained the annual summary of the profile of the workforce according to their protected characteristics as required by the Equality Act 2010. It covered the period to October 2025.

The report showed that the staff profile had been reviewed against the census data to evaluate how representative the figures were and this would feed into updating the Action Plan for areas of improvement. It was acknowledged that even for areas that appeared reflective of the census data, actions had still been identified for improvement. Regarding gender identity, the split was reflective of the census data and the local demographic. Work had been completed to establish regular Wellbeing Cafes which covered menopause, and Menopause Awareness Day had been marked for an event. The work also focused on promoting more Men’s initiatives such as Men’s International Day and more Mental Health Awareness schemes. Regarding Disability, the Council had hired more staff that had shared having a disability compared to the census data. The Council would take steps to achieve a higher declaration rate in the coming year.

It was confirmed there was an outstanding Action relating to using a standardised dyslexia friendly font for correspondence and emails. It was confirmed this Action would be completed in the coming year.

The Panel heard that steps would also be taken into achieving a higher declaration rate for ethnicity which had decreased to 9% from the previous year’s 13%. Members were advised that the Anti Racism Charter would be reviewed to identify further Actions.

Councillor Cawley asked how this data would influence Policy and how it would inform the Actions. It was stated that the work surrounding the Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Network which was being set up would include reviewing the Policies to assist in influencing policy. The Network would also include ERG Representation and would be involved in engagement.

Having noted the link between the data presented and the Workforce Strategy Action Plan, it was

RESOLVED

that the contents of the report be noted.