Introduction 

All public authorities in England, Wales and Scotland must demonstrate that they are promoting equality for women and men and eliminating sexual discrimination and harassment.

What is the gender equality duty?

The gender equality duty [GED] is a legal obligation which came into force in April 2007.  It was introduced by the Equality Act 2006, which in turn amended the Sex Discrimination Act 1975. 

General guidance

The general guidance given in this section applies to all public bodies, with information on processes such as gender impact assessment, collecting and using information, consultation, developing objectives, producing a scheme, employment, and procuring goods and services.

Codes of practice

The Code is the statutory guidance on the legal requirement of the duty. It must be used by public authorities to make sure they are complying with the law.

Sectoral guidance

Guidance for local government, health and care, housing and accommodation, justice and the legal system, schools and other educational bodies.

Specific duties

The specific duties on public authorities vary slightly between organisations in England, Scotland and Wales.

Enforcing the GED - A toolkit for individuals

We have designed this toolkit to enable you to take steps to check whether a public authority is complying with the GED and, if not, to call for the authority to comply.

Gender equality duty documents

A resource for all the relevant guidance for the general equality duty.