Fairer Renfrewshire Update
Renfrewshire Council · 29 April 2026
Back to Leadership Board — 29 April 2026 and its agenda
Text extracted from the council's PDF. Layout and reading order may differ from the original.
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PUBLIC ______________________________________________________________________________ To: Leadership Board On: 29 April 2026 ______________________________________________________________________________ Report by: Chief Executive ______________________________________________________________________________ Heading: Fairer Renfrewshire Update ______________________________________________________________________________ 1. Summary 1.1 The Council and its partners continue to work together to progress the Fairer Renfrewshire Programme, with a strong shared focus currently on the local response to the cost-of-living crisis. A Fairer Renfrewshire Action Plan was agreed by the Leadership Board in December 2025, which sets out the priority actions that the council and its partners will progress to reduce poverty and inequality in Renfrewshire over the next 18 months. 1.2 Regular reports are provided to the Fairer Renfrewshire sub-committee on the Fairer Renfrewshire Programme and Action Plan, with the most recent meeting on 25 March 2026 discussing some of the key developments over the last quarter in relation to the cost of living crisis, including the changing nature of the demand for advice services in Renfrewshire and the emerging impacts of the conflict in the Middle East on household income and expenditure in Renfrewshire. 1.3 This paper provides: • a summary of the issues as reported to the Fairer Renfrewshire Sub-Committee on 25 March 2026 including the cost of living and programme updates. • an update on recently released child poverty statistics at Scottish, Renfrewshire and ward level. • an overview of the proposed 26/27 Fairer Renfrewshire funding programme for approval by elected members as set out in Section 8. • an update on the recent Equalities Outcomes Consultation, with the consultation report attached at Appendix 1 and the proposed action plan attached at Appendix 2 for approval by elected members.
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PUBLIC 1.4 Priorities for the next quarter to end June 2026, as identified in the Fairer Renfrewshire Action Plan are as follows: • Finalise and launch the Summer of Fun programme ahead of the 2026 school holiday period. • Develop Renfrewshire’s Local Child Poverty Action Report. • Progress actions and continued development of Fairer Renfrewshire Action Plan, including measurement framework ______________________________________________________________________________ 2. Recommendations 2.1 It is recommended that elected members: • Note the content of the report and the work being undertaken to progress the Fairer Renfrewshire programme; • Approve the Equalities Outcomes Action Plan detailed in Section 7 and Appendix 2. • Approve the funding for the 26/27 Fairer Renfrewshire programme as outlined in Section 8 of this report • Agree that in line with section 8 of this report, grant funding is awarded as follows to support the delivery of the 26/27 programme: o £49,000 to Active Communities to deliver a programme of health and wellbeing support across Renfrewshire’s high schools o £50,000 to Renfrewshire Citizens Advice Bureau to support the delivery of the Schools Advice Service for a further year. o £45,000 to Renfrewshire Citizens Advice Bureau to support the delivery of the Welfare Rights Service for a further year • Agree that delegated authority to award grant funding in relation to the Summer of Fun programme be provided to the Head of Policy and Partnerships in consultation with the Council Leader, as outlined in section 8 of this report. ______________________________________________________________________________ 3. Background 3.1. The Fairer Renfrewshire Programme was developed in order to bring together targeted programmes of work being progressed by the Council and its partners to tackle poverty and inequality in Renfrewshire. As the cost of living crisis has developed, the programme has continued to evolve in response, and at Leadership Board on 3 December 2025, a Fairer Renfrewshire Action Plan detailing the priorities and programme of work to be undertaken over the next 18-24 months was approved. This plan refreshes and sharpens focus on the priorities for the Fairer Renfrewshire Programme. 3.2. Over the next two years, we will concentrate on four strategic priorities: • Improving Financial Security Helping households maximise income, reduce costs, and access early help to prevent crisis. • Strengthening Health, Wellbeing and Community Supporting families and communities through sustainable models of care, food security, and place-based approaches. • Embedding Equality and Inclusion Ensuring services are accessible, inclusive, and shaped by the voices of those who are often unheard. • Using Insight and Evidence for Impact
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PUBLIC Harnessing data, feedback, and lived experience to drive better decisions and deliver measurable change. 3.3. Regular updates on the programme are provided to the Fairer Renfrewshire sub-committee and subsequently to the Leadership Board. 4. Update from the Fairer Renfrewshire Sub-Committee 4.1 At its meeting on 25th March 2026, the sub-committee considered: • The most recent programme update including information on recent statistics and research in relation to the cost-of-living crisis, including the dashboard developed locally. • Progress updates in relation to the Fairer Renfrewshire programme, with presentations from officers from Advice Works and Citizens Advice Bureau in relation to the current advice provision landscape. • A presentation on the Family Poverty Insight Partnership which will be piloted in Renfrewshire to explore how to use data to identify families at risk of poverty. The pilot has received Scottish Government funding to support its delivery. 4.2 Officers gather information from a variety of sources at both a local and national level to inform discussion at the sub-committee. Key statistics and information discussed at its most recent meeting are provided in table 1 below. Table 1 Key National Statistics • The rate of inflation is standing at 3% in January, falling from 3.4% the previous month and has been above the target rate of 2% set by the UK Government for the Bank of England since October 2024, when it reached 2.3%. • The inflation rate for food has decreased to 3.6% in January, down from 4.5% in December. It remains higher than overall inflation. • The Bank of England interest rate was held at 3.75% in February and March after cutting rates six times since August 2024. • The Energy Price Cap, originally introduced by Ofgem in January 2019 to set limits on the underlying rates energy suppliers, is currently set at £1758 from 1 January, and will reduce to £1641 from 1 April. Cost of living research (national) The latest insights into the cost of living from the Office of National Statistics for the period 3 December 2025 to 4 January 2026 found that: • 88% of those surveyed reported the cost of living as the most important issue facing the UK today, the same as the November figure last reported to the Sub- Committee. • Around 62% reported that their cost of living had increased compared with a month ago, a slight increase from the 61% last reported, with 36% stating it had remained the same. • Among those who reported that their cost of living had increased compared with a month ago, the most commonly reported reasons were increases in the price of food shopping (94%), gas or electricity bills (68%) and the price of fuel (46%). The price of food shopping has been the most commonly reported reason given by
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PUBLIC adults for a rise in their cost of living since ONS first asked the question in November 2021. • Eating out less (58%), buying cheaper food (51%) and buying discounted food (38%) were the most commonly reported actions to save money on food because of the increased cost of living. In Scotland, eating fewer portions of fruit and veg as an action to save money was cited by 15%, more than Wales (10%) and England (12%). • Around one in three adults (34%) who pay energy bills reported finding it very or somewhat difficult to afford these bills; this was more common among adults in socially rented accommodation. • In the period 1 October 2025 to 4 January 2026, around 1 in 30 (3%) adults reported that in the past two weeks they or their household had run out of food and could not afford to buy more. • In the period 1 October 2025 to 4 January 2026, among adults currently paying rent or mortgage payments, around 3 in 10 (31%) reported finding it very or somewhat difficult to afford these payments. • 34% of adults say they will not be able to save any money in the next 12 months, while 18% are unsure. Employment and Income • According to the ONS, the Claimant Count in November 2025, which is taken from JobcentrePlus administration systems, for those claiming unemployment- related benefits in Renfrewshire is 3,185 people – 1905 men and 1280 women aged between 16 and 64. This is a reduction from 3,330 last reported. The Renfrewshire unemployment rate of 2.7% is less than the Scotland rate (3.5%). • The Sub-Committee were provided with an update on the uprating of a variety of benefits based on nationally agreed rates at a UK and Scottish Government level. Food costs / insecurity • Due to timings of the sub-committee, the Foodbank statistics last reported are the most current ones, as the current quarter was not yet available. At this stage the full annual figure will be available, and can be reported to the next sub-committee along with analysis of the annual figures. Housing • Private rent prices in Renfrewshire were an average £828 per month in January 2026, down from an average of £832 in November 2025, however an increase of 4.4% from the £793 in January 2025. This was higher than the Scottish figure of 2.6%. 4.3 The sub-committee was provided with an initial update on the impact of conflict in the Middle East, which has come at a time when there was some emerging positivity at a macro-economic level, due to the downward trends that were being seen over time in relation to both inflation and interest rate levels. 4.4 In terms of cost of living pressures, it was noted that initial impacts are already being experienced by households in Renfrewshire particularly in relation to fuel costs, including more noticeably through prices payable for petrol and diesel. In the short term it was noted that there is some protection in place for household gas and electricity bills due to the price cap set by energy regulator Ofgem, which is time bound. A sustained period of high wholesale costs for energy companies could however potentially mean a sharp rise in energy prices, whilst supply concerns remain an issue internationally.
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PUBLIC 4.5 The most immediate impact of rising prices is being felt by those who use heating oil. Around 130,000 homes in Scotland use heating oil, including some Renfrewshire residents in more rural areas and villages. There is no cap that limits the cost of heating oil and in some cases a doubling of prices has been reported in the national press as well as difficulty in obtaining deliveries. A £53 million support package was announced by the UK government on the 16th March 2026, with £4.6 million of this directed to Scotland. 4.6 From 1 April 2026, households in Scotland struggling with the rising cost of oil and Liquid Petroleum Gas for heating will be able to apply for £300 of support through the Scottish Government’s Emergency Heating Oil Scheme. The scheme, which will be administered by Advice Direct Scotland, is envisaged to run for up to six months with two opportunities to apply during that period. It will focus on low income households, including those in receipt of means-tested social security, but will also be open to applications from other people who have unavoidable additional heating needs and may face hardship including people with disabilities or those at risk of self-rationing fuel. Officers are considering local opportunities to promote the support available to local residents. 4.7 In addition, the sub-committee also noted the potential impacts of the conflict in terms of the financial markets. Prior to the conflict reducing levels of inflation had been coupled with a reduction in interest rates, which had been expected to continue. It has been reported that within the mortgage market, many products have now been withdrawn due to uncertainty within the financial markets , which means that for those who are taking out a mortgage, or renting from a landlord who has one in the next few years, there will likely be increased costs to borrowers. 4.8 The UK Government is currently considering options for supporting households on a targeted basis, should costs of living pressures increase at pace. Officers will continue to review all information available and work with partners to respond to developments as these emerge. 5. Child poverty statistics 5.1 Following the recent meeting of the sub-committee, the Scottish Government and the Department for Work and Pensions published a number of statistical reports which provide an updated picture of poverty and child poverty at a national, regional and local level. This data has not yet been discussed in detail with members of the sub-committee, however a high level overview of the statistics is provided within this update to Leadership Board for information and awareness. 5.2 The Department for Work and Pensions published their Children in low income families: local areas statistics report on 26 March 2026. This report provides granular local area information based on administrative statistics covering the family unit for both 23/24 and 24/25, and are derived from benefit, tax credit, housing costs and earnings data. 5.3 This is the first year that this report has included an after housing costs calculation within the statistics. Members will be aware from updates previously provided, that in past years this publication only provided information around relative and absolute poverty measures calculated before housing costs. It should be noted that there are several methodological changes to the way these statistics have been prepared compared to previous yearly publications, which in practice has meant that previously published numbers and percentages for the years 2022, 2023 and 2024 have been revised down. 5.4 14.8% of Scottish children (132,484 children) live in a relative low income family (after housing costs) in 2025. This figure is the lowest of all countries and regions of the UK.
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PUBLIC 5.5 12.7% of children in Renfrewshire (3,900 children) live in a relative low income family after housing costs in 2025. For comparison, the Glasgow City local authority area has the highest percentage figure in Scotland (23.3%), with East Dunbartonshire having the lowest figure (7.8%). 5.6 In 2025, 10.8% of Renfrewshire children live in relative low income families before housing costs, which is a slight reduction from the 2024 figure of 11%. This is one of the figures that has been revised down due to the different methodology being used. The figure previously reported for the percentage of Renfrewshire children living in relative low income families before housing costs in 2024 was 15.2%. 5.7 The breakdown at ward level for the percentage after housing costs is shown in the table below: Ward 2023/24 2024/25 Renfrew South and Gallowhill 24.8% 23.5% Paisley Northwest 19.8% 18.8% Paisley East and Central 16.4% 15.1% Paisley Southwest 17.1% 15.1% Renfrew North and Braehead 15.6% 14.1% Johnstone South and Elderslie 14.6% 13.3% Johnstone North, Kilbarchan, Howwood and Lochwinnoch 13.5% 13.1% Paisley Southeast 14.4% 11.1% Erskine and Inchinnan 10.7% 10.8% Bishopton, Bridge of Weir and Langbank 7.5% 8.6% Paisley Northeast and Ralston 10.2% 8.5% Houston, Crosslee and Linwood 9.0% 7.6% 5.8 A family must have claimed Child Benefit and at least one other household benefit (Universal Credit, tax credits or Housing Benefit) at any point in the year to be classed as having low income in these statistics. The figures in the report are likely to under-represent the true numbers of children living in a relative low income family, for example due to the family not receiving Universal Credit because they have chosen not to claim, unaware they should claim, or being ineligible to claim. 5.9 The Scottish Government’s Persistent Poverty in Scotland 2010 and 2024 report estimates the proportion of people, children, working-age adults and pensioners living in persistent poverty in Scotland. Persistent poverty statistics are based on tracking an individual over a four-year period. An individual is in persistent poverty if they are in relative poverty for at least three of the four years. 5.10 The figures show that between 2020 and 2024, 11% of people in Scotland were in persistent poverty after housing costs. These rates have changed little over time. Persistent poverty rates, after housing costs, were highest for children (17%), and lower for working- age adults (10%) and pensioners (9%). Not everyone in poverty is in persistent poverty. More than a third of people in poverty move out of poverty each year, and a similar number of people who were not in poverty in the previous year, enter or re-enter poverty.
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PUBLIC 5.11 Officers will present more detailed analysis of these publications at the next meeting of the Fairer Renfrewshire Sub-committee. 6. Fairer Renfrewshire Action Plan Update 6.1 A Fairer Renfrewshire Action Plan was agreed by the Leadership Board in December 2025, which sets out how the Council will work with partners to progress a number of priority actions which aim to reduce poverty and inequality in Renfrewshire. As elected members will recall the Action Plan has four themes: • Improving financial security • Strengthening Health, Wellbeing and Community • Embedding Equality and Inclusion • Using Insight and Evidence for Impact 6.2 Work has been undertaken to evaluate the legacy Tackling Poverty projects which are part of the Fairer Renfrewshire programme and consider sustainability options, and summaries of key findings from these evaluations are provided in the sections below. Strategic Priority One: Improving Financial Security 6.3 Further to discussion at Fairer Renfrewshire Sub-Committee in January, it was a suggested that further detail was brought to the sub-committee with a focus on the provision of advice services across Renfrewshire. A briefing paper was provided to the Sub-Committee on actions detailed within the Fairer Renfrewshire Action Plan to improve access to income advice and support and members also heard from officers from Advice Works and Renfrewshire Citizens Advice Bureau, on the work that is undertaken to support local residents. Cost of the School Day evaluation 6.4 As part of the evaluation programme for Fairer Renfrewshire, an evaluation was carried out of the Cost of the School Day fund. Cost of the School Day aims to support schools to identify and address financial barriers faced by families, particularly those with low incomes, related to the costs associated with participating in school life. 6.5 The evaluation found that the cost-of-living crisis has increased the need for support for many of these families and this increase in need has changed how schools use their Cost of the School Day (COSD) funding. The funding has raised awareness within schools of the impact of financial pressures on families, with schools being able to respond flexibly to the unique needs of their pupils and their families. 6.6 Although the funding is limited, schools agree that it has been instrumental in reducing the barriers to participation in school activities with associated costs and has helped to minimise the risk of any child/young person being unintentionally discriminated against due to financial circumstances. Schools have been better able to support learners from low- income families, with 60% of schools reporting that educational attainment has been positively impacted. Strategic Priority Two: Strengthening Health, Wellbeing and Community Skoobmobile evaluation
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PUBLIC 6.7 As part of the evaluation programme for Fairer Renfrewshire, an evaluation was carried out of the Skoobmobile, which is partially funded through Fairer Renfrewshire. The Skoobmobile plays an important role in providing a mobile public library service in areas where public libraries are not available or are less accessible. During 2024/25 the outreach service has carried out 476 visits engaging with 10,014 children and 2,378 adults. The service has also encouraged families to join Renfrewshire Libraries, with 91 new registrations and 2,591 books borrowed over the year. 6.8 The service provided a wide range of support through nursery and school visits, bedtime reading and Bookbug sessions, attendance at gala days and outreach provision in communities. The Skoobmobile staff also worked closely with the Whole Family Wellbeing Service to add value to their service. In Autumn, public Wi-Fi was installed onboard the Skoobmobile which is now a Digizone offering free Wi-Fi access throughout Renfrewshire. Staff are also working with Digital Champions about offering support at outreach visits to promote the databank, digital assistance and onboard Wi-Fi. 6.9 The bus is also in great demand during the school holidays, giving families free access to activities without having to travel or make and keep reservations. It is an important part of the Council’s Summer of Fun programme, providing flexibility to deliver services in areas where there are no other activities being delivered. The service continues to deliver a programme promoting learning through play, books and digital activity which has literacy and a love of reading at its core. 6.10 It is further noted that at its budget meeting, Council committed £300,000 to fund the replacement and fit out of a replacement vehicle, recognising that the current model of service provision also requires modernisation into a sustainable, flexible outreach service. This work to consider a longer term sustainable service delivery model was already identified within the Fairer Renfrewshire Action Plan, and officers will continue to work with OneRen colleagues to progress this. Hearty Lives evaluation 6.11 As part of the evaluation programme for Fairer Renfrewshire, an evaluation was carried out of the Peer Health Education project, Hearty Lives. This project is a collaboration between Renfrewshire’s High Schools and Active Communities to support young people in schools to become Peer Health Educators. A teacher at each school acts as a ‘project leader’ and is supported by Active Communities. Pupils are trained and supported to become Peer Health Educators and to lead activities in their schools which support healthy living, for example, mental health, healthy eating, drugs and alcohol, physical activity and sexual health. 6.12 The Hearty Lives programme has been found to increase focus in schools on supporting young people with mental health and other health related topics by providing engaging, fun activities led by peers and delivered in supportive, safe and inclusive spaces. Evaluation found that peer educators have enjoyed being mentors to younger pupils and have increased confidence due to their training and delivery of workshops and lunchtime clubs. 6.13 The programme has raised awareness of mental health issues and has improved understanding of the issues affecting young people in each school. Participation in the programme has equipped peer educators with skills that will be helpful for future volunteering and work experience, including organisation, communication and leadership skills. The programme has also led to pupils reflecting on their own mental health and, in some cases, benefiting from sharing these experiences with others.
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PUBLIC Winter Connections 6.14 At Leadership Board in May 2025, it was agreed that £75,000 of funding be allocated from Fairer Renfrewshire programme to provide small grants to local organisations to support a Winter Connections programme in partnership with local organisations. The programme aims to encourage people to connect and participate in activities in warm and welcoming spaces across communities in Renfrewshire. 6.15 The Winter Connections programme continues to run until the end of March and on closing will be evaluated, with the evaluation report brought forward to the Sub-Committee for consideration. At Council’s budget meeting in February, there was a continued commitment for Winter Connections identified for 2026/27, and work will now be undertaken to develop and deliver this year’s 26/27 programme informed by the evaluation. Strategic priority three: Embedding Equality and Inclusion Digital champions evaluation 6.16 The aim of the Digital Champions network is to provide accessible support across Renfrewshire to residents who are digitally excluded and to increase confidence and skills in using digital devices so that residents remain connected. Funding supports a Digital Champions Coordinator to recruit and train a network of ‘Digital Champions’ who use what they have learned through a training programme to support others. 6.17 Digital Champions are based in four of Renfrewshire’s libraries (Johnstone, Paisley, Renfrew and Ferguslie Park) and deliver a two-hour weekly drop-in session as well as one- to-one sessions that teach basic skills in using a smart phone, tablet, laptop or computer. Learners can be signposted by library staff or staff in other organisations such as the Health and Social Care Partnership, the Job Centre and ROAR. 6.18 In 2024/25 there were a total of 36 trained Digital Champions volunteering across Renfrewshire. From figures between April 2024 and March 2025 there were 1,252.5 hours of support delivered by Digital Champion volunteers at 499 sessions. From April 2025 to September 2025 a further 560.5 volunteer hours were delivered over 332 sessions. Since April 2024, over 200 data sims have also been provided by Digital Champions to individuals from a low-income household to access data from the Databank. 6.19 The service has resulted in increased confidence and skills in using digital devices for those who attend drop-ins by creating accessible spaces for people to learn and volunteers who are friendly, approachable and non-judgemental. It has also provided volunteering experience that has, in some cases, resulted in employment opportunities for Digital Champions. 6.20 A more detailed update on the digital Inclusion programme will be provided at the next meeting of the Sub-Committee in May 2026. New Scots Needs Assessment 6.21 Officers have worked with partners over the past 12-18 months to form a Strategic Migration Group (SMG) to consider the impact of Renfrewshire’s changing population, and to commence the process of developing a local action plan for Renfrewshire relating to New Scots and ethnically and culturally diverse communities. The term New Scots is used within national strategies to refer to people living in Scotland who have been forcibly displaced or who are making a claim to remain here. It is recognised that there is not universal
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PUBLIC consensus around this term and therefore in Renfrewshire we increasingly are considering implications for New Scots and ethnically and culturally diverse communities more generally. 6.22 An initial data / needs assessment was carried out on behalf of the officer group in summer 2025, with the data presented to the SMG at a workshop in October 2025. The workshop was attended by members of the SMG, other senior Council officers, with partner representation from One Ren, RHSCP, Police Scotland, NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde, Engage Renfrewshire and Pachedu. The SMG met in February to discuss the emerging issues from the feedback gathered during the session and develop the next steps of the needs assessment. 6.23 Officers will also continue to work proactively with partners and the wider community to identify opportunities to support Renfrewshire’s communities in relation to issues raised during the discussion, with various partnership discussions being scheduled to explore some of the opportunities and challenges being identified. 6.24 Something that has been consistently raised by in discussions with our ethnically and culturally diverse communities is the benefit of a welcome pack for those arriving in Renfrewshire. Development of such a pack forms part of the Fairer Renfrewshire Action Plan. Work began in March to develop the pack, with officers working with the IN Ren officer at Engage, Pachedu, Community Learning and Development and others to examine what information should be contained in such a pack, and during April will develop content. The pack will be trialled within communities before being finalised and published later in 2026. Trauma Informed and Responsive Renfrewshire 6.25 Trauma‑informed practice continues to underpin our wider approach to tackling inequality and improving outcomes for individuals, families and communities. The Improvement Service’s Elected Member Briefing (March 2026) highlights trauma as a significant public health issue linked to poorer outcomes across health, education, employment and wellbeing. It stresses that embedding trauma‑informed approaches is essential to addressing inequality and requires sustained leadership and cross‑system alignment. 6.26 The National Trauma Transformation Programme (NTTP) provides the national framework for this work, offering a roadmap for creating trauma‑informed and responsive organisations, systems and workforces. In Renfrewshire, the Trauma Informed and Responsive Renfrewshire (TiRR) Programme delivers this locally, supporting the embedding of trauma‑informed practice across Council services and the HSCP. 6.27 Progress continues across leadership, policy, workforce development and wellbeing. A key area of development has been strengthening leadership through trauma‑informed leadership self‑assessment sessions, enabling senior leaders to reflect on current practice and identify opportunities for improvement. 6.28 Work is also underway to embed trauma‑informed principles within organisational policy. This includes reviewing key corporate policies, with updated Bullying and Equality, Diversity and Inclusion policies now approved and further reviews ongoing. Alongside this, collaboration with regional partners across Greater Glasgow and Clyde has produced a Trauma‑Informed Policy Framework, including a shared language guide to support consistency in communication and practice.
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PUBLIC 6.29 A bespoke trauma‑informed iLearn module has been launched, with 423 colleagues completing the course to date. This is complemented by an increase in the number of staff trained to deliver trauma-skilled training locally, with our trained facilitators now having delivered trauma-skilled training to 122 colleagues. Together, these developments are building internal capacity and supporting wider rollout across services. 6.30 There has also been a strengthened focus on workforce wellbeing, recognising the impact of trauma on staff as well as service users. This includes piloting trauma‑informed wellbeing walkthroughs to assess how environments and systems support psychological safety and inclusion, with early learning now being shared and applied more widely. 6.31 Looking ahead, the TiRR Roadmap will be refreshed in the coming year to reflect national developments and local priorities. Plans are also underway to establish a trauma‑informed Community of Practice to support peer learning, good practice sharing and continued capacity building across services. Strategic Priority four: Using Insight and Evidence for Impact Child Poverty Accelerator Fund 6.32 In January, Renfrewshire Council was notified that it had been successful in a bid for funding from the Scottish Government’s Child Poverty Accelerator Fund. The funding will be used to create a locally governed 'Insight Partnership' that uses existing data to identify families showing early signs of child poverty risk. The partnership will connect these families quickly to the right support, including income maximisation, employability help, cost of living advice and family wellbeing services. The funding will be used to put into place officer resource to co-ordinate the programme, as well as creating additional data analysis capacity. 6.33 Given the focus in the Fairer Renfrewshire Action Plan on leveraging external funding opportunities, and the key role this project will play in the delivery of the plan’s cross cutting themes, a separate presentation detailing this project was provided to the Fairer Renfrewshire Sub-Committee at its recent meeting. Lived Experience Panel 6.34 Elected Members have been given a number of updates relating to work of the Fairer Renfrewshire Panel. Since the last Fairer Renfrewshire Sub-Committee meeting, the Panel have met with the Council’s Sustainability Lead Officer with regards to developing a Climate Adaption Plan and Chief Officer of Renfrewshire HSCP. 6.35 The Panel also met with the Community Justice Lead Officer in early March and with Research Resource in late March as part of the residents’ research to discuss budget priorities and place and neighbourhood. In future, it is planned that our Senior Policy Officer for Migration, Asylum and Population Change will visit the Panel to discuss this agenda. 7 Development of Equality Outcomes Action Plan 7.1 In May 2025 Council was presented with a set of draft Equality Outcomes for 2025-2029, based on data, evidence and insight into the inequalities that exist in Renfrewshire. 7.2 These draft Outcomes were subject to a full consultation throughout from September to October 2025. In total 162 people responded to the consultation, with 101 being engaged face-to-face and 61 providing written responses. Information was gathered across the 6
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PUBLIC Equality Outcomes on areas of good practice as well as barriers to realising each equality outcome. The full Consultation report is provided at Appendix 1. 7.3 From the consultation responses, a supporting action plan has been developed which includes actions across Council Services and with partners. Some actions within the action plan were taken from existing council service strategies and plans. This illustrates that many services are already addressing equality concerns raised by the community. However, where no action is already being progressed new actions have been created to address feedback. The proposed Action Plan is provided at Appendix 2. 8. Fairer Renfrewshire Funding Proposals 2026/2027 8.1 Officers have been developing a Fairer Renfrewshire programme for 2026/27, reviewing existing programmes of activity across 2025/26, and informed by discussions at the Fairer Renfrewshire Sub-Committee and relevant partnership groups. The proposed programme also reflects the specific commitments agreed as part of the approval of the Council’s budget on 26 February 2026. 8.2 At the Council’s budget meeting, members further reaffirmed their commitment to the Fairer Renfrewshire programme with continued investments in a number of targeted interventions including the £50 winter school clothing payment, the Winter Connections programme, funding to Renfrewshire Citizens Advice Bureau to support their welfare rights advocacy service and schools advice as well as an allocation of further funding to supplement both Discretionary Housing Payments and Scottish Welfare Fund. 8.3 It is recommended members approve the allocation of grant funding to Renfrewshire Citizens Advice Bureau for the welfare rights and schools advice services as above, to allow these to continue to run throughout 2026/27. 8.4 It is proposed that an additional £0.562m of Fairer Renfrewshire programme funding is allocated to support the delivery of the programme in 2026/27, in addition to the funding allocated by Council. 8.5 Specifically, this additional funding will support: • Continued provision of a free universal breakfast service in targeted primary schools. The project relieves financial pressure on low-income families, but most importantly, makes sure that children start the school day ready to learn. A wider corporate exercise is being undertaken to explore breakfast club provision locally, which will also consider recent Scottish Government announcements related to a national breakfast club offer as further details of this becomes available. • Ongoing provision of the Cost of the School Day fund, operating across all primary and secondary schools in Renfrewshire, directly supporting families in a variety of ways including uniforms, food, transport, extra-curricular activities and curricular expenses. • A targeted programme of summer activities for children and young people from low- income families, working across Council services and with community groups and third sector organisations across Renfrewshire to ensure that our most vulnerable families are able to access a range of activities and healthy food over the summer period. • Ongoing delivery of the Peer Health education project in partnership with Active Communities, working with young people in secondary schools across Renfrewshire to identify key health priorities in their school and developing young people to lead their own activities to improve health and wellbeing, with a focus on mental health.
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PUBLIC • Continued provision of the Skoobmobile, One Ren’s mobile public library service directly to children and families in communities. The programme continues to support the delivery of the Skoobmobile which introduces children to the benefit of reading and play and supports the Council’s ambitions to narrow the literacy attainment gap. • Delivery of the Digital Champions initiative in Renfrewshire, led by One Ren and supporting wider partnership activities to tackle digital exclusion. • Continue to support the Fairer Renfrewshire Lived Experience Panel to provide the voice of local residents with experience of low income on Council policy and service development. 8.6 A core priority during the next quarter will also be the implementation of arrangements with partners to deliver the Summer of Fun programme. It is proposed that the Summer of Fun programme is delivered through the same model utilised in previous years, with funding directed to establish a small grants programme which would allow third and community sector partners to deliver local, targeted provision to low-income families across Renfrewshire. In line with previous years, it is recommended that £50,000 is allocated to the delivery of the small grants community programme. This will be complemented by the delivery of summer camp opportunities. 8.7 In order to ensure that local organisations are able to access this funding within the necessary timescales before the summer period, it is proposed that the grants funding programme opens in May 2026, with funding applications being reviewed by a partnership panel. It is proposed that delegated authority is provided to the Head of Policy and Partnerships to consider and award grant funding of up to £3,000 per application, in consultation with the Council Leader. A full report detailing all funding applications and award outcomes will be provided to the Leadership Board at a future date. 8.8 Identifying sustainable delivery options for projects funded by Fairer Renfrewshire remains a key priority within the programme, and this is reflected within the Fairer Renfrewshire Action Plan. 8.9 In March 2026, Scottish Government published “Bringing Hope, Building Futures” which is the Tackling Child Poverty Delivery Plan 2026-2031. Work is underway to understand the opportunities and implications of the new Delivery Plan for local government, and for Renfrewshire specifically. 9 Priorities for next quarter 9.1 Priorities for the next quarter to end June 2026, as identified in the Fairer Renfrewshire Action Plan are as follows: • Finalise and launch Summer of Fun programme for 2026 school holiday period • Develop Renfrewshire’s Local Child Poverty Action Report • Progress actions and continued development of Fairer Renfrewshire Action Plan, including measurement framework _______________________________________________________________________________ Implications of the Report 1. Financial – Members are asked to approve £562,000 of funding for the delivery of the Fairer Renfrewshire programme across 2026/27 from the existing Fairer Renfrewshire reserve. 2. HR & Organisational Development – none
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PUBLIC 3. Community/Council Planning – This report provides a summary of current partnership activities being progressed through the Fairer Renfrewshire programme, with a key focus on tackling the inequalities that exist in Renfrewshire. 4. Legal - none 5. Property/Assets - none 6. Information Technology - none 7. Equality and Human Rights – The report provides an overview of key activities undertaken as part of the Fairer Renfrewshire programme, and as such there continues to be a high level of equalities and human rights consideration across this programme – the activities detailed in this report are targeted specifically at advancing equality of opportunity for a number of groups across the Renfrewshire area. 8. Health and Safety - none 9. Procurement – none 10. Risk – none 11. Privacy Impact – none 12. COSLA Policy Position – none 13. Climate Risk – none 14 Childrens Rights - the articles within UNCRC underpin the work that is being progressed in Renfrewshire through the Fairer Renfrewshire programme, particularly in relation to rights in relation to aspects such as life, survival and development, food, clothing and a safe home and supporting the best interests of the child and their families. Child poverty and family wellbeing are key local partnership priorities. ___________________________________________________________________ Author: Laura McIntyre, Head of Policy and Partnerships
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1 PUBLIC Equalities Outcomes Consultation Report 2025
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Equalities Outcomes Consultation Report 2025 2 PUBLIC Contents 1. Background ........................................................................................ 3 2. Equalities Outcome Consultation Method ........................................ 4 3. Questions ........................................................................................... 5 4. Results ................................................................................................ 5 5. Responses .......................................................................................... 5 6. Respondents .................................................................................... 17
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Equalities Outcomes Consultation Report 2025 3 PUBLIC 1. Background The Equality Act protects people from unfair treatment and asks public bodies like the Council to show how they make a positive difference to groups of people who share a protected characteristic. The protected characteristics include: • Age • Disability • Gender reassignment • Marriage and civil partnership • Pregnancy and maternity • Race • Religion and belief • Sex • Sexual orientation The Equality Act 2010 requires that all public bodies take account of the need to: • Eliminate discrimination, harassment and victimisation • Advance equality • Foster good relations between different groups The specific equality duty under the Equality Act requires Renfrewshire Council to prepare and publish a set of equality outcomes. An equality outcome should further one or more of the needs listed above to bring practical improvements in the life chances of those who experience discrimination and disadvantage. Draft Equality Outcomes In May 2025 Council was presented with a set of draft Equality Outcomes for 2025-2029, based on data, evidence and insight into the inequalities that exist in Renfrewshire. The six draft equality outcomes are: • Outcome 1: New Scots feel welcomed, supported, and have equal opportunities to thrive in our communities. • Outcome 2: Disabled and older people experience improved access to public buildings, services, and transport, ensuring greater independence and participation in community life. • Outcome 3: Improved economic prospects for women, ethnic minority people and disabled people.
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Equalities Outcomes Consultation Report 2025 4 PUBLIC • Outcome 4: All residents can access information and services in an inclusive and accessible manner. • Outcome 5: Our workforce better reflects the diversity of our community, in terms of ethnicity and disability. • Outcome 6: People with lived experience of inequality and exclusion will be more involved in informing and co-designing policy and practice that affects them. These draft Outcomes were subject to a full consultation throughout from September 2025 to October 2025. From the consultation responses a supporting action plan has been developed. 2. Equalities Outcome Consultation Method The equalities outcome consultation was launched at the start of September 2025. The consultation was designed to provide those who work, live and study in Renfrewshire with an opportunity to feedback on the Council’s draft equality outcomes and associated actions. There were several ways to contribute to the consultation including an online survey, which was offered in a paper format at all Renfrewshire Library Locations. Four focus groups open to all were also held in Johnstone, Renfrew and Paisley as well as an online Teams session. In addition, third sector organisations, community groups and Council services which engage with individuals who are likely to have an interest in the equality outcome consultation were contacted and offered an individual bespoke session. The consultation was promoted on Council social media, to Council staff, via Engage Renfrewshire (our 3rd sector interface) and via existing networks such as the Diversity Equality Alliance Renfrewshire and Advice Partnership. Notification of the consultation also went to organisations working with individuals likely to be impacted by the equality outcomes including New Scots, older, disabled, and ethnically diverse people. Several sessions supported individuals to complete the online consultation. These sessions were flexible in how they were delivered and driven by the needs of the individuals attending them. For example, Sewing2Gether All Nations was visited to help individuals attending fill out the online consultation form with the support of a translator. In addition to the four focus groups open to all, individual focus groups took place with: - A council led ESOL class - Disability Resource Centre - Kairos Women+
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Equalities Outcomes Consultation Report 2025 5 PUBLIC - Home Start Wellbeing group - Lived Experience Panel - Home Start Family Group - Linwood Seniors Forum - People supported by Learning Disability Services through the HSCP - RAMH 3. Questions Within the survey and the focus groups the same main questions were asked for each equality outcome: • Areas or examples of good practice • Barriers to realising the equality outcome • Suggestions for future action to realise the equality outcome 4. Results 101 people we engaged with face-to-face. 61 written responses were received (1 via email) when the online consultation closed on 31 October 2025, using a mix of online and paper surveys and one email response. 162 people were engaged with in total both via the survey and through face to face sessions. Although the sample size of the consultation is limited, the quality of the feedback received through the consultation shows rich engagement, particularly within the discussions and focus groups. Through this consultation the foundation for ongoing engagement has been built, with ongoing dialogue planned with equalities groups around the development of the plan. 5. Responses This section details responses to each equality outcome with key themes being identified for: • Areas or examples of good practice • Barriers to realising the equality outcome • Suggestions for future action to realise the equality outcome
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Equalities Outcomes Consultation Report 2025 6 PUBLIC Utilising the responses outlined in this section of the report an action plan has been developed. Equality Outcome 1 Equality outcome one is “New Scots feel welcomed, supported, and have equal opportunities to thrive in our communities”. There was feedback on terminology asking ‘equal opportunities’ to be changed to ‘equity of opportunity’ to acknowledge that different individuals may require different approaches to thrive in our communities. The term ‘New Scots’ has also been broadened out to ‘New Scots and our ethnically and culturally diverse communities’ to better encompass the range of individuals who may move to Renfrewshire and would benefit from support (E.g. those who are economic migrants or students). Therefore, it proposed that equality outcome one is changed to “New Scots and our ethnically and culturally diverse communities feel welcomed, supported, and have equity of opportunity to thrive in our communities”. Areas or examples of good practice The support offered to Ukrainian Refugees was highlighted as good practice as the support received felt coordinated and easy to navigate with support from the council and external community groups. New Scots who came to Scotland through established resettlement programmes highlighted that the support which was brought to the hotels they were accommodated in was incredibly helpful. This gave them a good overview of what charities, council services and support was available to them. Many New Scots and ethnically and culturally diverse communities who were consulted with felt that overall, Scotland felt like a welcoming and supportive place. Barriers to realising the equality outcome Main themes that were gathered through the consultation feedback included that negative narratives and misinformation about migration are increasing, contributing to divisive rhetoric and community tensions both locally and nationally. This has led to New Scots and our ethnically and culturally diverse communities feeling unsafe and unwelcome within Renfrewshire. There was also a perception of a lack of response from Renfrewshire Council, especially during the time of the consultation, in response to this negative rhetoric. Responses also indicated that there was a lack of local activity (that individuals are aware of) that support the integration of New Scots and our ethnically and culturally diverse communities. It was
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Equalities Outcomes Consultation Report 2025 7 PUBLIC also felt there was lack of local activity which celebrates New Scots and our ethnically and culturally diverse communities’ local culture and country. Furthermore, responses highlighted that there are often language barriers when New Scots first arrive. Although ESOL classes are provided, these were not always felt to be at the right level. ESOL classes provided by the council are often at a basic level and thus unsuitable for those who are looking to progress their English language skills, especially for professional needs. Respondents also cited that childcare could be a barrier to attendance at ESOL classes. Although there was an acknowledgement that the UK government oversees the settlement schemes available, it was highlighted that there is not parity in what is offered to different nationalities who come to Renfrewshire. Respondents felt that this was unfair as some New Scots can access clearly outlined and signposted support mechanisms whilst others struggle to navigate a complex system with a lack of specific support in place. The difference between resettlement schemes and asylum was not well understood. The response time to asylum applications was cited as a challenge as this left many individuals waiting for a decision without the ability to work. Respondents also highlighted that they often find out about services they are entitled to through word of mouth, especially through engaging with community or voluntary organisations. Respondents felt it was difficult to find the right information on different services or benefits that they are entitled to due to the complex language used in government and council communications and documents. New Scots also highlighted that a major barrier to their integration was that they found it challenging to find employment. New Scots who responded to the consultation who were in the process of claiming asylum in the UK were not allowed to work. Those who claim asylum in the UK are not normally allowed to work whilst their claim is being considered. They are instead provided with accommodation and support to meet their essential living needs if they would otherwise be destitute. Other barriers to employment included limited English and often no UK qualifications. This left many feeling isolated. A number of themes raised in this section echo discussions at the Council’s Strategic Migration Group workshop in October 2025. Suggestions for future action to realise the equality outcome Prior to the consultation three actions were identified to help achieve equality outcome one, these include: 1. Undertake a partnership Strategic Needs Assessment which will allow us to develop local priorities and actions to better support New Scots and our ethnically and culturally diverse communities.
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Equalities Outcomes Consultation Report 2025 8 PUBLIC 2. Develop Council capacity to provide ESoL opportunities. 3. Increase racial literacy and challenge discrimination in schools and across Council services. Generally there was agreement that these actions were appropriate. Several of these actions are currently being progressed within the Council. There were some comments in relation to these actions, mainly around ESoL provision and increasing racial literacy. Respondents highlighted a gap in ESoL provision with the level taught by the council being at beginner level whilst what the college is offering is a large step up. This paired with some ESoL learners not having attended a formal learning environment before can lead to an individuals not feeling confident enough to progress onto the college offering. Respondents felt that an intermediate course that could bridge the gap between current community and college provision would be helpful. In relation to racial literacy several comments suggested that racial literacy and anti-racism training should be mandatory learning for all Council employees. It was also felt that this training should be in-depth and ongoing rather than a one-off e-learning module. Further feedback on the racial literacy action identified there is a need for better understanding of racism and how to respond to racist incidents in schools. Below is a snapshot of some of the proposed activity within the action plan as a result of the feedback received. A full action plan with all the collated actions has been developed. • All schools will have anti-racism on school improvement plan. • Support development of information pack for New Scots and our ethnically and culturally diverse communities, which is accessible for all. • Integrate the celebration of the cultural wealth brought to Renfrewshire by New Scots and our ethnically and culturally diverse communities into the existing events programme (Sma’ Shot day, Paisley Halloween Festival, and the Paisley Food and Drink Festival). Equality Outcome 2 Equality outcome two is “Disabled and older people experience improved access to public buildings, services, and transport, ensuring greater independence and participation in community life.” There was some feedback on terminology asking for this equality outcome to reflect access to buildings and services in general rather than the current scope of just public buildings. However, as the council has limited influence and ability to change buildings, services and transport which is not public this change has not been made within the equality outcome. Areas or examples of good practice
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Equalities Outcomes Consultation Report 2025 9 PUBLIC Examples of good practice highlighted within the consultation responses include where groups had been consulted on the Paisley Museum at the start of its design which led to the feedback influencing the design of the building to be more accessible. Having staff present, cameras on transport, and cameras in stations are all examples of good practice to increase feelings of safety raised by participants. It was highlighted that the ‘I am me’ signage is useful to identify spaces that are safe. Good practice examples of ensuring public transport is accessible include having audio messages on the bus to inform passengers of the next stop. This is especially helpful for individuals who cannot read or do not have good English literacy. Barriers to realising the equality outcome One strong theme that came through during the consultation on this equality outcome is services utilising a digital first approach which does not suit many disabled and older people as they are more likely to be digitally excluded. For example, some respondents found the signposting to and use of MyAccount challenging. It was felt that since the Covid-19 pandemic there was a decline in services utilising other methods of communication such as having staff available at Johnstone Town Hall. Transport was a significant contributor to disabled and older people being able to be independent and participate in community life. The regularity, cost, and lack of transport links to more rural areas were highlighted as the main barriers to utilising public transport. Inaccessible infrastructure was highlighted as a further barrier to utilising public transport. Several participants highlighted that there aren’t always appropriate dropped pavements at bus stops making manoeuvring to get to and from the bus stop impossible and therefore means that public transport is not an option. Many mentioned they were unable to book taxis which could facilitate the transportation of wheelchair users in their powered wheelchairs. The perception of respondents was that since the Covid-19 pandemic the number of taxis able to transport powered wheelchair users had declined. For many this was one of their only viable transport options, and lack of provision meant that individuals were unlikely to go out as they couldn’t guarantee that a suitable taxi would be able to take them to their destination. Furthermore, several individuals had been stranded after a social event due to no appropriate taxis being available to collect them and take them back home. This discouraged individuals from leaving their homes unless they knew exactly how they could get to and from the venue. Infrastructure was frequently cited as a major barrier to disabled and older people participating in community life. Cars parked on pavements, bins being left on pavements, and not enough dropped
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Equalities Outcomes Consultation Report 2025 10 PUBLIC kerbs all prevented wheelchair users and others with reduced mobility to freely move about their local community. Respondents highlighted that it was not just the venue that would need to be accessible for them to engage in community life, but also the route to get there. A nervousness around the accessibility of bathroom facilities at venues was also highlighted as a barrier. With some venues such as restaurants or other leisure attractions advertising accessible bathrooms which are not fit for purpose. My Bus was highlighted on multiple occasions as a service which used to be a lifeline for individuals. Unfortunately, it was felt that the current service is not meeting the demand with trips often not being able to be accommodated. Participants also noted that they felt there was a lack of events in their local community which would help to reduce social isolation. They cited that having something locally would mean it was more likely for them to be able to attend. Within the recent Renfrewshire Council Resident Survey (2025) respondents aged 35-54 were most likely to agree Renfrewshire Council designs its services around the needs of the people who use them (73%) while those aged 55- 64 were least likely to agree (56%). Fewer respondents with a disability agreed (54%) when compared to those without a disability (56%). These findings corroborate the consultation results with many older people and disabled people citing they found services inaccessible or difficult to navigate. Suggestions for future action to realise the equality outcome two Several actions were consulted on to help reach equality outcome two. The actions consulted on include: 1. More disabled people and older people can access public transport safely 2. Deliver initiatives to reduce social isolation in older people and disabled people Broadly respondents felt that these actions were fit for purpose. There was some feedback on terminology asking for the words ‘can access’ to be changed to ‘do access’. This is reflected in the overall action plan. Future activity to support this outcome as contained in the Action Plan includes: • Develop community capacity and resilience by supporting community groups to form, grow and connect. • Consider further programme of work to better understand barriers and experiences of disabled residents. • Ensure council customers are meaningfully involved in developing services, and their needs are influential and at the heart of decision-making.
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Equalities Outcomes Consultation Report 2025 11 PUBLIC Equality outcome 3 Equality outcome three is “Improved economic prospects for women, ethnic minority people and disabled people”. There was a comment made to request the language of this equality outcome to be changed from ‘ethnic minority’ to ‘minority ethnic’ to better recognise that everyone has an ethnicity. Therefore, it is proposed that equality outcome three is revised to “Improved economic prospects for women, minority ethnic people and disabled people” Areas or examples of good practice Respondents to the consultation had encountered good practice in several areas including organisations offering work trials rather than basing hiring practices solely on interviews and applications. Specific organisations which were incredibly helpful in supporting individuals into employment such as Invest in Renfrewshire were brought up as good practice examples. However, these organisations aren’t always well known about. Barriers to realising the equality outcome The consultation responses had several themes as to what barriers would prevent women, minority ethnic people, and disabled people from improved economic prospects. The cost and provision of childcare was cited by many respondents as a barrier to looking for work. Respondents also reported they struggled to find a job that would allow enough flexibility to be able to pick up children from childcare and look after them during holidays. It was also highlighted that due to benefits regulations it can be difficult for individuals to find a role that is suitable, and pays enough, to work full time hours. Participants cited working less to ensure they were still able to claim their benefits. Another barrier is the lack of support and understanding when disabled people are in employment or applying for a role. The lack of knowledge surrounding disabilities and reasonable adjustments means that for many the application process is inaccessible. Furthermore, retention of disabled employees is poor when reasonable adjustments are not discussed or made. Respondents also highlighted that qualifications obtained abroad may not be recognised in the UK or Scotland leading the economy to miss out on valuable skillsets. It was also highlighted that organisations often ask for UK specific experience and that experience from outside of the UK is not always recognised or valued. This often leads to New Scots and our ethnically and culturally diverse communities being under or unemployed.
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Equalities Outcomes Consultation Report 2025 12 PUBLIC Finally, respondents highlighted that language barriers lead to difficulties finding employment. Respondents felt that many job applications include jargon and complex English. This causes the applications to be inaccessible to many discouraging them from applying for roles they may be suitable for. Suggestions for future action to realise the equality outcome Several actions were consulted on to help reach equality outcome three. The actions consulted on include: 1. Increase the proportion of women supported into employment or training. 2. Increase the proportion of minority ethnic people supported into employment or training. 3. Increase the proportion of disabled people supported into employment or training. There was agreement that these actions would support the implementation of equality outcome three. Future activity to support this outcome as contained in the Action Plan includes: • Review Breakfast Club provision and develop a consistent and sustainable model of provision. • Develop sustainable models for the delivery of summer holiday activities for children and young people from low-income families. • Develop and deliver a sectoral employability programme alongside ESOL provision. Equality outcome 4 Equality outcome four is “All residents can access information and services in an inclusive and accessible manner.” Good practice Several responses to the consultation mentioned the bin collection information leaflet as a good practice example within the council. Respondents felt the leaflet was clear, concise and easy to understand. Respondents also cited that face to face services (some of which are no longer available) in local communities were beneficial, especially to several equality groups. Barriers to realising equality outcome When analysing the consultation results there were several themes that came through for equality outcome four, with some themes overlapping with the other equality outcomes due to the broad nature of council information and services. Similarly to equality outcome two, it was highlighted
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Equalities Outcomes Consultation Report 2025 13 PUBLIC that the digital first approach can be a barrier to those who are digitally excluded for whatever reason. Furthermore, participants highlighted that they found the website challenging to navigate. It was specifically highlighted that they did not find the search function to be intuitive with the results that it feeds back. Participants indicated they would often utilise a generic search engine to find what they were looking for, rather than the council website search function. As highlighted in response to equality outcome one, Council communications could be simplified by using plain English, especially on the website and forms that require completion. There are often large paragraphs of text making the information inaccessible to individuals who may not have a good command of written English. This prevents individuals finding the information that they are looking for and accessing services. Participants highlighted that initial communications are always in English and usually written. As highlighted in equality outcome one and two, if individuals do not have a good command of written or spoken English this would cause services to be inaccessible. Most participants indicated they were not aware of how to request information in a different format and queried the effectiveness of this. Relating back to the point above, if an individual does not have a good command of written English they may not be able to decipher how to request information in a different format if instructions of how to do so are in English. Millie, Renfrewshire Council’s AI telephone assistant was a consistent theme throughout the consultation. Most groups spoken to, and many written responses highlighted the AI telephone assistant. Where responses mentioned Millie it was because they found the assistant challenging to use, with some respondents finding it impossible due to disabilities (e.g. due to a speech impediment which meant they were not able to respond to Millie quickly enough to navigate the menu presented to them). Although participants highlighted that they understood why Millie was introduced, they would welcome the opportunity to ensure the system was fully tested, especially with disabled people and individuals who are less technically literate. Throughout the consultation there was a strong feeling that previously there were many options in terms of how individuals got in touch with the council and different council services. However, now there seemed to be a much more streamlined approach, removing face to face options and relying more on digital and phoning (via Millie) with the perception that this made the council more challenging to reach, especially for minoritised communities. Several actions were consulted on to help reach equality outcome four. The actions consulted on include:
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Equalities Outcomes Consultation Report 2025 14 PUBLIC 1. Provide accessible information on council services for people facing barriers through disability and language. 2. Prepare for implementation of the new Inclusive Communication Duty. 3. Ensuring that the new Council website and online services more broadly are accessible. 4. Provide key documents in accessible formats (Easy Read, BSL, Braille, large print, audio). There was agreement that these actions would support the implementation of equality outcome four. Future activity to support this outcome as contained in the Action Plan includes: • Work with services on more inclusive communications in line with Residents Research findings. • Review/create translation and interpretation guidance. Develop a central way to ask for communications to be provided in an alternative format, translated or interpreters to be booked. • Continue to ensure there are available alternatives to digital contact and advertise the different ways people can contact the council (face to face, phone etc). Equality Outcome 5 Equality outcome five is “our workforce better reflects the diversity of our community, in terms of ethnicity and disability.” Barriers to realising equality outcome When analysing the consultation results there were less comments overall on this equality outcome. However, some general themes were able to be established as to what the barriers were to the council workforce better reflecting the diversity of the local community. There was a consensus that there is a lack of visible diversity in relation to ethnicity and disability within the council. This can act as a barrier to disabled and minority ethnic individuals from applying for roles. Similar feedback to equality outcome three was raised with jargon and complex English often being present within job descriptions and adverts for council roles. This can be a challenge for those who don’t have English as their first language, are unfamiliar with the Scottish Council context, and those who don’t have high English literacy. As highlighted in equality outcome three it was highlighted that for those who are New Scots and our ethnically and culturally diverse communities a lack of UK experience or accreditations often presented a barrier. Participants felt that job specifications are often too rigid in this area with little room for flexibility. This leads to the Council missing out on valuable skills and experience from
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Equalities Outcomes Consultation Report 2025 15 PUBLIC individuals due to a lack of clarity of how qualifications or experience translates into a Scottish context. Several actions were consulted on to help reach equality outcome five. The actions consulted on include: 1. Explore how the Council’s workforce can become more reflective of the communities we serve. 2. Increase representation of underrepresented groups in leadership roles within the council. 3. Workforce culture will be more inclusive with employees from all backgrounds and characteristics and experiences reporting they feel increasingly valued. 4. Ethnic minority, disabled and LGBT+ staff have safe and supportive work environments, and the Council is seen as an employer of choice. 5. Ensure colleagues are comfortable reporting incidents of discrimination or bullying. There was overall agreement that these actions were suitable and would help reach equality outcome five. Future activity to support this outcome as contained in the Action Plan includes: • Within Public Sector Equality Duty reports continue to compare council workforce equality data to Renfrewshire census data to establish where the Council’s workforce can become more reflective of the communities we serve. • Create a framework to support the establishment of employee network to create trust and alternative channels to raise good practice, concerns, and ideas. • Review application process to ensure any areas for potential bias are addressed. Equality Outcome 6 Equality outcome six is “people with lived experience of inequality and exclusion will be more involved in informing and co-designing policy and practice that affects them.” Good practice A good practice example mentioned by respondents included the continuous process of consultation on the Paisley Museum and how this has influenced the design. Early involvement and engagement was appreciated by respondents. Barriers to realising equality outcome Whilst analysing the responses to the consultation in relation to this equality outcome there were several barriers highlighted to achieving this outcome. There was a high level of consensus on the barriers, especially when consulting with the disabled community within Renfrewshire.
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Equalities Outcomes Consultation Report 2025 16 PUBLIC The main barriers to people being involved in co-designing policy and practice that affects them includes feeling disillusioned and a lack of trust with the consultation and engagement process. This was due to several reasons including previous consultation or engagement activity being run by the council when the policy or practice was already so far along the design process that there was not a genuine opportunity to influence or change the outcome. Respondents spoke about consultation and engagement exercises often feeling like a tick box exercise. Many highlighted having contributed feedback in the past and not being told about what they could expect in terms of next steps, where they could find out more about how their feedback had influenced change, or any follow up communications to let them know this. This lack of a feedback loop was a large deterrent to getting involved in the future. Previous engagement and consultation activity has also taken an inflexible approach leading to several groups not being able to contribute. Examples included that the timings and spaces selected for consultations have been inaccessible. Furthermore, there is often jargon heavy language used which leads to a lack of understanding. Equality groups are also not always appropriately involved leading to these groups feeling undervalued and easy to ignore. Others cited that a major barrier to being involved in decision making being not knowing how to get involved or how to provide feedback to the council or council services. It is worth noting that within the recently conducted Renfrewshire Council Resident Survey (2025) disabled residents were consistently less likely to agree with positive statements about the council, especially around listening to views and addressing local issues. This highlights that the council may need to be particularly mindful of engaging disabled residents around decision making, especially where these decisions are likely to have a large impact on disabled individuals. Several actions were consulted on to help reach equality outcome six. The actions consulted on include: 1. Implement the new Consultation and Engagement Policy, which will seek to better engage equalities communities in local decision-making. 2. Increase engagement from marginalised communities in local decision-making through a range of participatory approaches. 3. Improve transparency of monitoring and reporting of equality work across the Council. 4. Improve public reporting of Equality Impact Assessments carried out across Council services. It was widely agreed that these actions would be beneficial to reaching equality outcome six. It was highlighted that the council must try to reach those who do not currently engage with the council to ensure all voices are heard, not just those already known to the council. Future activity to support this outcome as contained in the Action Plan includes:
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Equalities Outcomes Consultation Report 2025 17 PUBLIC • Apply learning from lived experience and practitioner feedback to shape services, with a focus on customer facing services • Establish a Consultation and Engagement Advisory Group (CEAG) to act as a ‘community of practice’ providing training, sharing best practice, coordinating a consultation calendar, and embedding consistency of approach across the organisation. • Increase information sharing of how to give feedback on council decisions, communication, and services. Based on the feedback received during the consultation period an action plan has been created. Some actions within the action plan were taken from council service strategies and plans. This illustrates that many services are already addressing equality concerns raised by the community. However, where no action is already being progressed new actions have been created to address feedback. Some feedback cannot be addressed through the action plan as this is out with the Councils scope. E.g. specific feedback on refugee resettlement schemes which are determined by the UK government. The full action plan will be progressed until 2029 when the Equality Outcomes will be updated and reviewed. An interim progress report will also be provided in 2027. 6. Respondents Below is a breakdown of the demographics of those who responded to the survey. Please note these figures may not add up to the total 60 responses received as these questions were optional and therefore may not have been answered. New Scots Within the survey the term ‘New Scot’ was defined as “a term used to describe people of any nationality who have immigrated or moved to Scotland, regardless of their existing nationality. It includes immigrants, refugees, and international students and can be used from the first day of arrival in Scotland.”
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Equalities Outcomes Consultation Report 2025 18 PUBLIC As can be seen from the chart above there was a reasonable proportion of responses from New Scots. No comparison can be drawn to the most recent Scottish Census as it did not collect this information. However, from internal information an educated assumption can be made that compared to the Renfrewshire population there is an overrepresentation of New Scots who responded. However, considering one of the equality outcomes specifically is targeted at New Scots the responses from the group is welcome. Disability The chart above illustrates that there was a reasonable response (13%) to the survey from those with a disability or a long-term health condition. Compared to the census data 11.73% in 12 35 8 Are you a New Scot? Yes No Prefer not to say 13 33 9 Do you have a disability or long term health condition lasting or expected to last 12 months or more? Yes No Prefer not to say
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Equalities Outcomes Consultation Report 2025 19 PUBLIC Renfrewshire are limited a lot by their disability or long term health condition and 13.02% are limited a little by their disability or long term health condition. Therefore, this group was underrepresented within the survey responses. However, several disability groups were consulted with within bespoke sessions. Age The age of respondents can be seen in the graph below. This information cannot be compared to the Scottish census like-for-like as the age groups do not fully align. However, those under 34 seem to be underrepresented within the survey results, those 35 – 64 seem to be overrepresented, and those 65 and over are slightly underrepresented. Sex 1 4 5 13 18 8 6 0 2 4 6 8 10 12 14 16 18 20 0 - 15 16 - 24 25 - 34 35 - 49 50 - 64 65 or over Prefer not to say What age are you?
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Equalities Outcomes Consultation Report 2025 20 PUBLIC We can see from the chart below that there was a larger proportion of female respondents to the survey. This means there is an overrepresentation of female respondents to the survey. However, one of the equality outcomes relates specifically to women, and as such this may have meant a higher response as the equality outcome affects women directly. Transgender No respondents indicated that they were trans or had a trans history. Within the Scottish Census 0.38% of the Renfrewshire population shared that they were trans or had a trans history. There is a high proportion of individuals who also chose the ‘prefer not to say’ option for this question. Taking these two factors into account, it may be reasonable to assume that it will be challenging to ensure the voice of this group is represented. We may wish to consult with trans individuals through other mechanisms to capture their feedback. 0 43 11 Do you consider yourself to be trans or have a trans history? Yes No Prefer not to say 10 37 8 What is your sex? Male Female Prefer not to say
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Equalities Outcomes Consultation Report 2025 21 PUBLIC Ethnicity Not all ethnic groups were represented within the survey results. Compared to the Scottish Census 2022 those from who are from mixed or multiple ethnic groups, those who are Arabic, Scottish Arabic or British Arabic, Asian, Scottish Chinese, or British Chinese, African, Scottish African, British African or other African, or another ethnicity are overrepresented within the survey results. However, there is an equality outcome relating specifically to minority ethnic individuals and as such this may have garnered a higher response rate from these ethnic groups. 0 5 10 15 20 25 30 35 40 African, Scottish African or British African Asian, Scottish Chinese or British Chinese Arabic, Scottish Arabic or British Arabic Caribbean or Black Mixed or multiple ethnic groups White Prefer not to say Other Which of the following best descirbes your ethnicity?
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Equalities Outcomes Consultation Report 2025 22 PUBLIC Sexual orientation Compared to the Scottish Census results those indicating they are bisexual and gay or lesbian is representative of the general Renfrewshire population. However, the number of respondents in these categories is low and thus, is unlikely to be an accurate representation of these groups. Those who are straight/heterosexual are underrepresented and those who have indicated they have a ‘other’ sexual orientation are overrepresented compared to the Renfrewshire population. Religion Similarly to ethnicity, not all religions were represented. Compared to the Scottish Census Church of Scotland, no religion, and Roman Catholics were underrepresented. Muslims, Other Christians and Sikhs were overrepresented compared to the Scottish Census. There was also a high number of individuals not wishing to disclose their religion. 1 1 35 14 2 Which of the following best describes your sexual orientation? Bisexual Gay or Lesbian Straight/Heterosexual Prefer not to say Other
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Equalities Outcomes Consultation Report 2025 23 PUBLIC 6 6 15 6 8 1 13 0 2 4 6 8 10 12 14 16 Church of Scotland Muslim None Other Christian Roman Catholic Sikh Prefer not to say What religion, religious denomination or body do you belong to?
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24 PUBLIC Connected Communities Renfrewshire Council Renfrewshire House Cotton Street Paisley PA1 1BR
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PUBLIC Renfrewshire Council – Equalities Outcomes Action Plan 2026-2029 Equality Outcome 1: New Scots and our ethnically and culturally diverse communities feel welcomed, supported, and have equity of opportunity to thrive in our communities We will: Because you told us: The difference we will make by 2029: Responsible Council Service(s) Collaborate with community partners to develop a community cohesion work programme. That the negative rhetoric around refugees, asylum seekers and migrants is impacting feelings of safety and belonging for New Scots and our ethnically and culturally diverse communities New Scots and our ethnically and culturally diverse communities feel they are safe and belong due to improved community cohesion. Strategy, Policy & Insight Communications, Marketing & Events Integrate the celebration of the cultural wealth brought to Renfrewshire by New Scots and our ethnically and culturally diverse communities into the existing events programme (Sma’ Shot day, Paisley Halloween Festival, and the Paisley Food and Drink Festival). Communications, Marketing & Events Deliver actions identified within the Fairer Renfrewshire Action Plan to better support New Scots and our ethnically and culturally diverse communities moving to Renfrewshire: • Complete a Strategic Needs Assessment which will allow us to develop local priorities and actions to better support New Scots and our ethnically and culturally diverse communities There is a lack of local activity (that individuals are aware of) to support the integration of New Scots and our ethnically and culturally diverse communities. Support offered to New Scots and our ethnically and culturally diverse communities is responsive to their needs and easily found in a comprehensive information pack. Strategy, Policy & Insight Connected Communities Information about support and services available is challenging to find and difficult to understand due to complex language.
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PUBLIC • Support development of information pack for New Scots and our ethnically and culturally diverse communities, which is accessible for all • Expand the provision of English Speakers of other Languages (ESoL) New Scots and our ethnically and culturally diverse communities experience language barriers when arriving in Scotland. Expanded ESOL course offerings. All schools will have anti-racism on school improvement plan. Schools need to enhance their understanding of racism and how to respond to racist incidents. Increased the racial literacy and challenging of discrimination in schools. Children’s Services Implement the self-evaluation toolkit designed by The West Partnership to engage staff in bespoke anti racist activity. Children’s Services Share feedback with Renfrewshire Council Education employees from the anti-racist training programme developed in partnership with West of Scotland Development Education Centre. Children’s Services Equality outcome 2: Disabled and older people experience improved access to public buildings, services, and transport, ensuring greater independence and participation in community life. We will: Because you told us: The difference we will make by 2029: Responsible Council Service(s) Continue to advertise council events through non-digital methods. A digital first approach does not suit many disabled and older people More disabled people and older people can access information about services, transport and events. Communications, Marketing & Events Continue to develop digital inclusion actions identified within the Fairer Renfrewshire Action Plan: Digital, Transformation & Customer Services
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PUBLIC • Identify and develop new supports for those who are digitally excluded including in relation to skills development, online safety and wider barriers such as affordability. • Continue to support Digital Champions Programme to expand reach • Expand DigiZones as a mechanism to access free devices, support and connectivity Deliver actions identified within Renfrewshire Local Transport Strategy 2035 which seek to address accessibility: • Working with SPT and operators; make buses, trains and taxis accessible and easier for all to use, including through reducing physical accessibility barriers and improving the accessibility of travel information • Working with Transport Scotland, ScotRail and Network Rail; improve accessibility at all rail stations, including ramp access on all platforms and between platforms (as applicable), including at Lochwinnoch station • Prioritise pedestrian safety through a review of crossing facilities on the local road network at locations identified in the Annual Accident Public transport is not always accessible for disabled and older people due to accessibility barriers on the way to and at the location of public transportation stops/hubs. Infrastructure is a barrier to disabled and older people being able to walk or wheel in their local community. More disabled people and older people can access public transport safely. More disabled people and older people are able to walk and wheel in their local area. Environment, Housing and Infrastructure
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PUBLIC Assessment and through working with local communities Deliver actions identified within Renfrewshire Local Transport Strategy 2035 which seek to address availability of public transport: • Working with partners; explore opportunities to expand network coverage of bus services in rural areas of Renfrewshire and between areas of deprivation and employment such as AMIDS • Support provision of existing and new Community Transport and Demand Responsive Transport, with a focus on rural areas and access to health and providing transport that is fully accessible • Support the expansion of car club schemes across Renfrewshire, including clubs with electric vehicles Public transport links to more rural areas are lacking. Demand responsive transport is not meeting needs of users. More disabled people and older people can access public transport safely in rural areas. There are more transport options available which can meet personal requirements. Environment, Housing and Infrastructure Further explore barriers to disabled residents using local taxi services and utilise this information to identify possible solutions. There is not enough provision of taxis which are able to accept powered wheelchairs. Partnership work has taken place to seek improved experiences for disabled residents Licensing Deliver action identified within the Fairer Renfrewshire Action Plan to better respond to the needs of disabled residents: Connected Communities
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PUBLIC • Consider further programme of work to better understand barriers and experiences of disabled residents Deliver actions identified within Renfrewshire Community Learning and Development Partnership Plan 2024 - 2027 which seek to deliver initiatives to reduce social isolation in older people and disabled people: • Provide a tailored range of health and wellbeing programmes for older people; people with a disability; and identified excluded groups with health improvement needs • Develop community capacity and resilience by supporting community groups to form, grow and connect Lack of (knowledge of) events in local community Disabled and older people are supported to engage and participate in initiatives to reduce social isolation. Connected Communities Deliver action identified within the Fairer Renfrewshire Action Plan to build community capacity: • Develop sustainable models for supporting community connection through the winter period, considering longer-term model for Winter Connections programme. Connected Communities Equality Outcome 3: Improved economic prospects for women, minority ethnic people and disabled people
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PUBLIC We will: Because you told us: The difference we will make by 2029: Responsible Council Service(s) Deliver actions identified within the Fairer Renfrewshire Action Plan to address barriers to employment: • Support parental employability and progression in work. E.g. by working with employers to create family/parent friendly working conditions and working patterns e.g. school hour posts. • Identify and reduce barriers for those needing additional support to move into and progress in work, across groups identified by the Local Employability Partnership Finding roles which allow enough flexibility to fit around childcare is challenging. The cost and provision of childcare are barriers to finding employment. Parents in Renfrewshire have access to and can pursue employment opportunities which fit around their childcare responsibilities. Invest in Renfrewshire Local Employability Partnership Deliver actions identified within the Fairer Renfrewshire Action Plan to agree sustainable models for delivery: • Review Breakfast Club provision and develop a consistent and sustainable model of provision • Develop sustainable models for the delivery of summer holiday activities for children and young people from low-income families Connected Communities Continue to provide traineeship opportunities as paid placements within Renfrewshire Council to allow parents to re-enter the job market to develop skills and confidence to support them to progress towards gaining employment. Invest in Renfrewshire
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PUBLIC Local Employability Partnership In line with the Community Learning and Development Plan 2024 - 2027 deliver actions to help citizens develop skills to enhance employability: • Explore opportunities across Council Services for closer joint working with Local Employability Partnership, particularly around supporting parental employability and supporting No One Left Behind (NOLB) approaches. Connected Communities Continue to provide targeted support to tackle the increased challenge of in-work poverty through: • Supporting parents already in work to remain active in the workplace • The provision of ongoing training and employability support. • Partners to identify opportunities for local people to gain work experience and career progression opportunities across respective organisations There are a lack of suitable roles that are flexible and pay enough to allow individuals to fully come off benefits. Increased engagement with the support provided to tackle challenges of in-work poverty. Connected Communities Continue to enhance understanding of disabilities and reasonable adjustments through: • Identifying and reducing barriers for those needing additional support to move into and There is a lack of support and understanding of disabilities and reasonable adjustments from local employers Sustained employment for disabled people as workplaces are supportive and have a good Local Employability Partnership
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PUBLIC progress in work, across groups identified by the Local Employability Partnership • Continue to provide training for Local Employability Partnership colleagues to enhance understanding of how to more effectively support clients with different disabilities and health conditions. • Embedding lived experience into the Local Employability Partnership by working with Lived Experience Panel, co-producing materials, and hosting focus groups as required. understanding of reasonable adjustments. Continue to translate qualifications from abroad into English. Qualifications from abroad are often not recognised by UK employers, leading to underemployment Individuals with qualifications from aboard can demonstrate their skills to UK employers Local Employability Partnership Develop and deliver a sectoral employability programme alongside ESOL provision. Language barriers can lead to difficulty finding employment Those experiencing language barriers have routes into employment. Local Employability Partnership Equality outcome 4: All residents can access information and services in an inclusive and accessible manner. We will: Because you told us: The difference we will make by 2029: Responsible Council Service(s)
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PUBLIC Continue to ensure there are available alternatives to digital contact and advertise the different ways people can contact the council (face to face, phone etc). Digital first approach is not suitable for everyone. Digital services are only a part of our offering, and other channels remain accessible for those who need it. Communications, Marketing & Events Various council services Prepare for implementation of the new Inclusive Communication Duty. Communications, Marketing & Events Deliver action identified within the Fairer Renfrewshire Action Plan to ensure services are inclusive and accessible: • Identify available supports, including community services, for people, both digital and physical and work with stakeholders to develop an awareness campaign. Digital, Transformation and Customer Services Provide accessible information on council services for people facing barriers through disability and language on Renfrewshire.gov.uk by: • Ensuring that when old website content is migrated to the new council website the content is written in accessible language. • Council services to ensure communications are accessible and in plain English Lack of plain English used within council communications Council communications on new website and promotional materials are accessible and written in plain English. Communications, Marketing & Events Digital, Transformation and Customer Services Various council services Deliver action identified within the Fairer Renfrewshire Action Plan to ensure services are inclusive and accessible: Communications, Marketing & Events
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PUBLIC • Work with services on more inclusive communications in line with Residents Research findings Connected Communities Provide key information, including the Council Plan and the Community Plan in accessible formats (E.g. Easy Read, BSL, Braille, large print, audio). Review what information is provided in accessible formats on a yearly basis. Initial communication in English and individuals not aware of how to request communication in a different language or format Residents can access key information in accessible formats and are aware of how to ask for communications in an alternative format. Communications, Marketing & Events Connected Communities Review/create translation and interpretation guidance and develop a central way to ask for communications to be provided in an alternative format, translated or interpreters to be booked. Communications, Marketing & Events Digital, Transformation and Customer Services Various council services Ensure that the new Council website and online services more broadly are accessible by: • When old website content is migrated to new council website that content is in an accessible format • Conducting a yearly accessibility audit against the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG 2.0) and making any required improvements. The current website can be challenging to navigate New council website is easy to navigate and information is easy to understand. Communications, Marketing & Events Create examples of forms that are easy for people to read and use. We will share these examples so that staff across the organisation can use them to improve their own forms. Council forms can be jargon heavy and challenging to navigate. Council forms are easy to read and fill in. Connected Communities
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PUBLIC The Promise Team Ensure that equality and diversity are considered, and required mitigations are embedded when rolling out AI tools across council services. Implementation of AI and public facing digital tools have been a barrier to communicating with the council Our customers are meaningfully involved in developing public facing digital tools, and their needs are influential and at the heart of decision-making Digital, Transformation and Customer Services Complete user testing with public facing digital tools. Digital, Transformation and Customer Services Equality Outcome 5: Our workforce better reflects the diversity of our community, in terms of ethnicity and disability We will: Because you told us: The difference we will make by 2029: Responsible Council Service(s) Encourage employees to share their personal equality information through targeted communications campaigns. There is a lack of visible diversity within council especially in terms of disability and minority ethnic people We can more accurately identify if Renfrewshire Council’s employees are representative of the Renfrewshire population. People & OD Communications, Marketing & Events Within Public Sector Equality Duty reports continue to compare council workforce equality data to Renfrewshire census data to establish where the Council’s workforce can become more reflective of the communities we serve. People & OD Review the application to interview process to ensure any areas for potential bias are addressed. There is improved representation within the People & OD
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PUBLIC recruitment process from equality groups Implement the Employee Suggestion Scheme allowing employees to share ideas to improve efficiency, enhance wellbeing, and deliver Best Value. Council employees are aware of more diverse mechanisms to share feedback. People & OD Review and evaluate the Council’s Employee Engagement Forums to ensure they are giving employees a space to share ideas, raise concerns, and contribute to service improvements. People & OD Develop an engagement framework to identify how different employee voice mechanisms feed into decision making. People & OD Create guidance to support the establishment of Employee Equality Forums (e.g. LGBT+ Forum, Neurodiversity Forum). People & OD Review the impact of the EDI Strategy across the protected characteristics and review where additional work is required. We have a better understanding of the experiences of minority ethnic and disabled staff and have an action plan in place to address any negative experiences. People & OD
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PUBLIC Continue to ensure plain English is used in job descriptions where possible Jargon in job descriptions is a barrier to applying Council job descriptions are easy to understand. People & OD Equality outcome 6: People with lived experience of inequality and exclusion will be more involved in informing and co-designing policy and practice that affects them We will: Because you told us: The difference we will make by 2029: Responsible Council Service(s) Implement the new Consultation and Engagement Policy, which will better engage equalities communities in local decision-making. Equality groups feel disillusioned and a lack of trust with the consultation and engagement process. Better engage equalities communities in local decision making through implementing a standardised high-quality approach to consultation and engagement activity within Renfrewshire Council. Strategy Policy & Insight Establish a Consultation and Engagement Advisory Group (CEAG) to act as a ‘community of practice’ providing training, sharing best practice, coordinating a consultation calendar, and embedding consistency of approach across the organisation. Strategy Policy & Insight Deliver actions identified within the Fairer Renfrewshire Action Plan to use insight to drive targeted action: • Apply learning from lived experience and practitioner feedback to shape services, with a focus on customer facing services • Continue to embed lived experience and lesser heard voices as part of corporate approach to consultation and engagement. Connected Communities Fairer Renfrewshire Officer Group
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PUBLIC • Ensure the voice of young people are captured and acted upon, including Care Experienced Young People • Ensure communities see how their input influences decisions Deliver action identified within the Fairer Renfrewshire Action Plan to use insight to drive targeted action: • Ensure communities see how their input influences decisions A lack of feedback loop means you are unsure how your feedback makes a difference. Communities know how their feedback has shaped decision making. Connected Communities Increase information sharing of how to give feedback on council decisions, communication, and services. Consultation and Engagement Advisory Group Increase engagement from marginalised communities in local decision-making through a range of participatory approaches using appropriate data such as SIMD and Census Inflexible approaches to engagement and consultation mean that equality groups face Engagement and consultation is delivered in ways that allows equality groups to participate fully. Consultation and Engagement Advisory Group
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PUBLIC Develop a small grant programme to commission local organisations who engage with/represent equalities groups to share the experiences and perspectives of diverse groups. barriers to participating in consultation and engagement. Connected Communities Work in partnership with the Integration Network Renfrewshire (IN-Ren) on priority actions determined through the Partnership and Collaboration Event. Initial focus will be to progress partnership work in relation to Tackling Stigma, Prejudice and Safety Concerns. Connected Communities In line with the Community Learning and Development Plan 2024 - 2027 : • Explore options to develop a CLD Voice Forum/ forum arrangements to inform future planning • Explore options for further roll-out of participatory budgeting and decision making opportunities in Renfrewshire • Progress the Local Plans, Local Voices, Local Priorities campaign through Local Partnerships Residents in Renfrewshire have diverse mechanisms to contribute to decision making. Connected Communities Local Partnerships Ensure opportunities to influence and feed into council services are advertised including through the Third Sector Interface. It can be difficult to know how to get involved or how to provide feedback to the council or council services Information on how to influence and feed into council services is shared through different channels. Consultation and Engagement Advisory Group Increase information sharing of how to give feedback on council decisions, communication, and services. Consultation and Engagement Advisory Group
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PUBLIC Improve public reporting of Equality Impact Assessments carried out across Council services. There is a lack of understanding of how equality groups are considered in decision making. Improved capability within Renfrewshire Council to consider equality groups within decision making. Increased transparency within decision making process. Connected Communities Update and refresh supporting resources (toolkit and training) for the completion of Equality Impact Assessments. Connected Communities Improve transparency of monitoring and reporting of equality work across the Council by establishing a regular reporting cycle to Leadership Board for key equality commitments. Connected Communities