Monitoring equality, diversity, and inclusion
Why we ask for personal information
What is Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion monitoring?
“Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion monitoring” is the name given to personal information we collect about the people who use our services or work for us.
It tells local authorities where to direct their services; it shows us if certain people aren’t making the most of them; and it makes sure everybody has access to the services they are entitled to.
What information do we ask for on our equality, diversity, and inclusion monitoring form?
In our equality, diversity, and inclusion monitoring forms, you may be asked for information relating to any of the nine protected characteristics. They are:
- Age
- Gender reassignment
- Married or in a civil partnership
- Being pregnant or on maternity leave
- Disability
- Race, including colour, nationality, ethnic or national origin
- Religion or belief
- Sex
- Sexual orientation
Why do we need this information?
We have a legal and a moral duty to eliminate all forms of discrimination when employing people and when delivering services.
We are committed to delivering excellent services, but we can only do this if we understand who our customers are and what particular needs they have.
How have the ethnicity categories been decided upon?
The six main ethnic categories we have used are those used in the 20201 Census. This makes it easier for us to analyse information.
What will we do with the information?
The information will only be used to monitor services and employment. It will not be used to identify you, and no one will contact you because of the answers you give.
All the information will be stored securely in line with GDPR and the Data Protection Act 2018. Your answers will only be retained for as long as is considered necessary for monitoring purposes, and then they will be destroyed.
Do you have to answer the questions?
No, you don’t have to answer any question if you prefer not to. However, as the results will be kept strictly confidential, and it may help us to improve our services, we would encourage you to answer as many questions as possible.