Since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, many aspects of our work and our learning have been affected, with staff and students often having to adapt quickly.
Last week, colleagues in Gold Command – the group of executives leading on our response to COVID-19 – agreed that, as we continue to respond to the pandemic, we need to think carefully about how our temporary and longer-term actions will affect staff and students, including in relation to potential impacts on equality.
Going forward, all colleagues responsible for making proposals and decisions about actions we take in relation to COVID-19 need to ensure they’ve explored how an action will impact upon the different equality groups protected under the Equality Act 2010, and that any findings are taken into consideration when making a final decision.
To support colleagues to assess the equality impact of proposed actions, a simplified Equality Impact Assessment (EIA) form and guidance documents have been produced and made available via the COVID-19 EIA site.
To avoid duplication and facilitate sharing of information and effort, this site also provides a list of completed EIAs, as well as a number which are currently being drafted. The names of lead contacts are also available.
The Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Team is available to support colleagues. Get in touch by emailing: [email protected]
