16 May 2008
The Commission today publishes its 2008/09 business plan which sets out the plan of work for the first full year of operation.
After consultation with stakeholders, the Commission has developed four strategic priorities for the year:
- Analyse, define and target key equality and human rights challenges.
• Change policy and organisational practice to provide better public services alongside an efficient and dynamic economy.
• Engage, involve and empower the public, especially people from disadvantaged communities and areas.
• Anticipate social change, develop new narratives and reach new audiences in ways that strengthen equality and human rights.
Key areas of work for the Commission over the coming months will include legal actions, grant making, research and policy development. There are 12 key delivery targets, some examples of which include:
• Lobbying for and influencing landmark legislation, including an equality act.
• A public inquiry into the allocation of social housing and the affect this has on community cohesion and relations between people of different racial backgrounds.
• An inquiry into how widely the Human Rights Act is being used in public services and public attitudes towards the act.
• Influencing government on the future of social care provision to promote peoples' independence and enable them to combine the demands of caring and work.
Chief Executive, Nicola Brewer said:
'The new business plan sets out an ambitious agenda for our first full year of operation and is the first step in developing our long term objectives. We are working towards building a society based on fairness and respect, our aim is to break down the barriers that hold people back, release untapped talent and expand opportunities to all.'
To download a copy of the 2008/09 business plan please follow this link.
ENDS
For more information contact the Equality and Human Rights Commission Media Office on 02031170255, out of hours 07767272818.
Notes to Editors
The Equality and Human Rights Commission is a statutory body established under the Equality Act 2006, which took over the responsibilities of Commission for Racial Equality, Disability Rights Commission and Equal Opportunities Commission.
The Equality and Human Rights Commission is the independent advocate for equality and human rights in Britain. It aims to reduce inequality, eliminate discrimination, strengthen good relations between people, and promote and protect human rights.
The Equality and Human Rights Commission will enforce equality legislation on age, disability, gender, race, religion or belief, sexual orientation or transgender status, and encourage compliance with the Human Rights Act. It will also give advice and guidance to businesses, the voluntary and public sectors, and to individuals.
To download a copy of the 2008/09 business plan please follow this link.