Issue - meetings

At the Cabinet meeting held on 16^th September 2026 Members agreed to extend the timeframes for the Equalities Strategy and the Engagement Policy from 2026 – 2028 up to 2026 – 2030.

The Improvement and Performance Manager presented the Equalities Strategy (including Engagement Policy) 2026/28 for Cabinet’s consideration.

The Equality Strategy provided a framework at the Council for equalities and inclusion and brought together activities from across the authority.  The content extended beyond the aspirations of the previous strategy and would influence a range of key projects and activities.  Within the strategy, an Equality Action Plan had been developed containing key objectives.  Progress in respect of this action plan would be monitored.

The Engagement Policy detailed the Council’s approach to engaging with local residents and service users. 

Members discussed the content of the strategy and policy.  In doing so, it was noted that the previous strategy had applied for a four year period whilst it was proposed that the draft strategy should apply for two years, from 2026 to 2028.  Questions were raised as to whether these timeframes had been influenced by the original timetable for LGR.  Officers confirmed that this had been taken into account when the timeframes were considered.

Consideration was subsequently given to the potential to extend the timeframes covered by the strategy up to 2030.  Clarification was provided that whilst there was a pause on LGR, the Council was reviewing the implications of this for Council services and budgets.  However, confirmation was provided that extending the timeframes of the strategy would not require significant extra work or expenditure.  Furthermore, it was acknowledged that the timeframes could be revisited at a later date, depending on the Government’s future announcement on LGR for Worcestershire.

In this context, Members proposed to amend the timeframes of the strategy to apply from 2026 to 2030.  To ensure consistency, Cabinet further proposed that the timeframes for the Engagement Policy should also be extended to cover the period 2026 to 2030.

RECOMMENDED that the Equality Strategy 2026 – 2030 (including the Engagement Policy 2026 - 2030) be approved.