Issue - meetings

The Business Improvement Manager presented the RBC Equality Strategy 2026-2028 (including Engagement Policy) report.

Members were advised that the Strategy would be considered by Full Council for final approval. It was explained that the document did not introduce new initiatives but instead built on existing work already underway across the Council, applying a clear equality focus to service delivery and decision-making. The Strategy also aimed to ensure that communications and engagement activities were fair, accessible and effective for all residents.

The Committee was informed that the Strategy built on the progress achieved under the previous Equality Strategy, including the delivery of Council housing at Church Hill, improvements to the housing allocations system, the successful redevelopment of the Town Hall as a community hub and investment in skills and public spaces.

The Strategy was based around four equality objectives: continuing to deliver fair and accessible services; strengthening inclusive engagement and communication; improving understanding of communities and supporting inclusion; and supporting an inclusive and representative workforce.

The accompanying Engagement Policy set out how the Council would engage with residents, community groups and partners in an inclusive and meaningful manner, ensuring equality considerations were embedded at an early stage and that feedback was reported transparently.

Officers confirmed that the report would be amended to update the references to Local Government Reorganisation before submission to Full Council.

RECOMMENDED that the Equality Strategy 2026 – 2028 (including the Engagement Policy) be approved.