Democracy Spraffa

Item 05 Appendix 9

West Dunbartonshire Council · 1 March 2023
Back to West Dunbartonshire Council — 1 March 2023 and its agenda

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Page 1

1
Equality Impact Assessment record layout for information: Assessment Number 554
Owner: Annabel Travers
Resource: Regeneration Service/Establishment: Supply, Distribution and Property Service
First Name Surname Job Title
Head Officer: Annabel Travers Procurement Manager
Include job titles/organisation
Members: Annabel Travers, Procurement Manager, West Dunbartonshire Council;
Angela Wilson, Chief Officer - Supply, Distribution and Property Service, West Dunbartonshire Council
Please note: the word policy is used as shorthand for strategy policy function or financial decision
Policy Title: SDP_ 04 Corporate Procurement Unit (CPU) - Absorb Purchase to Pay Support in to Services
The aim, objective, purpose and intended outcome of policy
Service officers are responsible for requesting, approval and payment of supplies / services / works (Purchase to Pay [P2P]).  One of
the systems for delivery of these duties, is PECOS.  Currently, the PECOS administration is part of the CPU.   This team: processes
changes within PECOS; uploads e-Catalogues; resolves PECOS system issues; updates guidance on the intranet and escalates work
routes if the user still has issues despite the guidance.
The aim of absorbing the PECOS P2P support in to Services is to provide efficiencies to support the balance of the budget.  Potential
outcomes in reaching up to £99,481 of efficiencies per year. 
Service/Partners/Stakeholders/service users involved in the development and/or implementation of policy
All Council Services, WD HSCP Services as well as Trade Unions.
Appendix 9

Page 2

2 
Does the proposals involve the procurement of any goods or services? N
If yes please confirm that you have contacted our procurement services
to discuss your requirements 
SCREENING
You must indicate if there is any relevance to the four areas
Duty to eliminate discrimination (E), advance equal opportunities (A)
or foster good relations (F) Y
Relevance to Human Rights (HR) Y
Relevance to Health Impacts (H) Y
Relevance to Social Economic Impacts (SE) Y 
Who will be affected by this policy? 
All Council services, Elected Members and partner organisations including the Scottish Government. 
Who will be/has been involved in the consultation process?
Annabel Travers, Procurement Manager, West Dunbartonshire Council - conducted this high level efficiency option regarding the CPU;
Angela Wilson, Chief Officer - Supply, Distribution and Property Services, West Dunbartonshire Council - interrogated this high level
efficiency option;
Performance and Monitoring Review Group, West Dunbartonshire Council - where informed of this high level efficiency option; 
Martin Rooney, Leader of the Council - was informed of this high level efficiency option; and
Michelle McGinty, Deputy Leader of the Council - was informed of this high level efficiency option.

Page 3

3 
If this high level efficiency option regarding the CPU is to be taken forward to the next stage; staff, Trade Unions and Elected Members
will be consulted. 
Please outline any particular need/barriers which equality groups may have in relation to this policy list evidence you are
using to support this and whether there is any negative impact on particular groups 
Needs Evidence Impact
Age Worries surrounding job
security may be heighten
in older staff - reiterate
the commitment to no
compulsory
redundancies 
Please see cross cutting 
https://www.gov.scot/publications/scotlands-
labour-market-people-places-regions-statistics-
annual-population-survey-2019/ 
https://www.gov.scot/publications/older-people-
employment-scotland/ 
The age profile in the current structure:
1 x staff = <24 years old
1 x staff = 30 - 34 years old
1 x staff = 40 - 44 years old
1 x staff = 60 - 64 years old 
There is 1 staff who is within the 60 - 64 years old
category
Negative - This could heightened
concerns of staff as evidence suggests
that those over 50 find it more difficult to
regain employment
Disability Please see cross cutting   Neutral
Gender
Reassign
Please see cross cutting  Neutral
Marriage &
Civil
Partnership
Please see cross cutting  Neutral
Pregnancy
& Maternity
Full communication to
staff in 'maternity leave'
about this process 
Please see cross cutting
There is 1 staff who is currently on maternity
leave
Neutral - Return of work on June 2023

Page 4

4 
Needs Evidence Impact
Race Please see cross cutting  Neutral
Religion &
Belief
Please see cross cutting  Neutral
Sex Worries surrounding job
security may be heighten
in women - reiterate the
commitment to no
compulsory
redundancies 
Please see cross cutting
There are 3 out of 4 staff who are women Negative - Detriment to female staff
compared to males because of make up
of workforce
Sexual
Orientation
Please see cross cutting  Neutral
Human
Rights
Please see cross cutting  Neutral
Health Please see cross cutting  Neutral
Social &
Economic
Impact
Worries surrounding job
security may be heighten
lower payed staff -
reiterate the commitment
to no compulsory
redundancies 
Please see cross cutting
HR21 records 
There are 3 out of 4 staff who are on the lowest
grade within this structure
Negative - Detriment to lowest grade staff
due to potential work being transferred
Cross
Cutting
Identify a "champion" to
assist with understanding
of this process for staff 
Reiterate the commitment
to no compulsory
redundancies to mitigate
against any heightened
concerns 
Neutral

Page 5

5 
Policy has a negative impact on an equality group, but is still to be implemented, please provide justification for this
There is the potential for three FTE  to be displaced.  A fair process would be undertaken in line with the Council's policies.
Will the impact of the policy be monitored and reported on an ongoing bases?
Yes
What is your recommendation for this policy?
Nothing is checked for this
Please provide a meaningful summary of how you have reached the recommendation
EIA 554 details impact on staff.  
3 FTE out of  3.7 FTE staff will be potentially displaced from the structure. There are:
3 out of 4 staff are women and this would therefore affect women more;
3 out of 4 staff are on the lowest grade and therefore affect them due to transaction work being absorbed into other Services; and
1 out of 4 staff being 60 - 65 and this could heightened concerns about being displaced, as evidence suggests that those over 50 find it
more difficult to regain employment.

Page 6

1 
Equality Impact Assessment record layout for information: Assessment Number 555 
Owner: Annabel Travers 
Resource: Regeneration Service/Establishment: Supply, Distribution and Property Service 
First Name Surname Job Title
Head Officer: Annabel Travers Procurement Manager 
Include job titles/organisation
Members: Annabel Travers, Procurement Manager, West Dunbartonshire Council;
Angela Wilson, Chief Officer - Supply, Distribution and Property Service, West Dunbartonshire Council 
Please note: the word policy is used as shorthand for strategy policy function or financial decision
Policy Title: SDP-02    Corporate Procurement Unit (CPU) - Transfer Non Complex Procurements to Services 
The aim, objective, purpose and intended outcome of policy
The remit of the category team within the CPU is to develop robust procurement and contract management activity that drive and enable
business transformation and that aligns with national, local and Council strategies and delivers best value for money. 
The aim of transferring non-complex procurements into other Services is to provide efficiencies to support the balance of the budget.  
Potential outcomes could be £148,471 of efficiencies per year. 
Service/Partners/Stakeholders/service users involved in the development and/or implementation of policy
All Council Services, WD HSCP Services as well as Trade Unions.

Page 7

2 
Does the proposals involve the procurement of any goods or services? N
If yes please confirm that you have contacted our procurement services
to discuss your requirements 
SCREENING
You must indicate if there is any relevance to the four areas
Duty to eliminate discrimination (E), advance equal opportunities (A)
or foster good relations (F) Y
Relevance to Human Rights (HR) Y
Relevance to Health Impacts (H) Y
Relevance to Social Economic Impacts (SE) Y 
Who will be affected by this policy? 
All Council services, Elected Members and partner organisations including the Scottish Government. 
Who will be/has been involved in the consultation process?
Annabel Travers, Procurement Manager, West Dunbartonshire Council - conducted this high level efficiency option regarding the CPU;
Angela Wilson, Chief Officer - Supply, Distribution and Property Services, West Dunbartonshire Council - interrogated this high level
efficiency option;
Performance and Monitoring Review Group, West Dunbartonshire Council - where informed of this high level efficiency option; 
Martin Rooney, Leader of the Council - was informed of this high level efficiency option; and
Michelle McGinty, Deputy Leader of the Council - was informed of this high level efficiency option.

Page 8

3 
If this high level efficiency option regarding the CPU is to be taken forward to the next stage; staff, Trade Unions and Elected Members
will be consulted.
Please outline any particular need/barriers which equality groups may have in relation to this policy list evidence you are
using to support this and whether there is any negative impact on particular groups 
Needs Evidence Impact
Age Worries surrounding job
security may be heighten
in older staff - reiterate
the commitment to no
compulsory
redundancies 
Please see cross cutting 
https://www.gov.scot/publications/scotlands-
labour-market-people-places-regions-statistics-
annual-population-survey-2019/ 
https://www.gov.scot/publications/older-people-
employment-scotland/ 
The age profile in the current structure:
1 x staff = <24 years old
1 x staff = 25 -29 years old
1 x staff = 30 - 34 years old
4 x staff = 35 - 39 years old
3 x staff = 40 - 44 years old
1 x staff = 45 - 49 years old
1 x staff = 50 - 54 years old 
There is 1 staff who is within the 50 - 54 years old
category 
Negative - This could heightened
concerns of staff about any displacement,
as evidence suggests that those over 50
find it more difficult to regain employment
Disability Worries surrounding job
security may be heighten
in disabled staff -
reiterate the commitment
to no compulsory
redundancies 
Please see cross cutting 
HR21 report 
Disabled people in employment - House of
Commons Library (parliament.uk) 
There is at least 1 staff who is disabled
Negative - This could heightened
concerns of staff about any displacement

Page 9

4 
Needs Evidence Impact
Gender
Reassign
Please see cross cutting  Neutral
Marriage &
Civil
Partnership
Please see cross cutting  Neutral
Pregnancy
& Maternity
Please see cross cutting  Neutral
Race Please see cross cutting  Neutral
Religion &
Belief
Please see cross cutting  Neutral
Sex Worries surrounding job
security may be heighten
in women - reiterate the
commitment to no
compulsory
redundancies 
Please see cross cutting
There are 8 out of 12 staff who are women Negative - Detriment to female staff
compared to males because of make-up
of workforce
Sexual
Orientation
Please see cross cutting  Neutral
Human
Rights
Please see cross cutting  Neutral
Health Worries surrounding job
security may be heighten
in staff who have Health
conditions 
Please see cross cutting
Occupational Health reports 
Of the Health screening that was undertaken
before formally offering a new job, there are at
least 4 out of 12 staff for whom the Equality
Legislation is likely to apply
Negative - This could heightened
concerns of staff about any displacement

Page 10

5 
Needs Evidence Impact
Social &
Economic
Impact
Worries surrounding job
security may be heighten
in lower payed staff -
reiterate the commitment
to no compulsory
redundancies 
Please see cross cutting
HR21 records 
There are 4 out of 12 staff who are on the lowest
grade within this structure
Negative - This could heightened
concerns of staff about any displacement
Cross
Cutting
Identify a "champion" to
assist with understanding
of this process for staff 
Reiterate the commitment
to no compulsory
redundancies to mitigate
against any heightened
concerns 
Neutral
Policy has a negative impact on an equality group, but is still to be implemented, please provide justification for this
There is the potential for 3.1 FTE  to be displaced.  A fair process would be undertaken in line with the Council's policies.
Will the impact of the policy be monitored and reported on an ongoing bases?
Yes
What is your recommendation for this policy?
Introduce

Page 11

6 
Please provide a meaningful summary of how you have reached the recommendation
EIA 555 details impact on staff.  3.1 staff in a current structure of 12 FTE, will be potentially displaced from the structure. There are:
8 out of 12 staff are women and this could therefore affect women more;
4 out of 12 staff are on the lowest grade and therefore affect them due to operational work being  transferred to other Services;  
At least 1 out of 12 staff is disabled and this could heightened concerns about being displaced;
At least 4 out of 12 staff have health conditions and this could heightened concerns about being displaced; and
1 out of 12 staff being 50 - 55 and this could heightened concerns about being displaced, as evidence suggests that those over 50 find it
more difficult to regain employment.

Page 12

1 
Equality Impact Assessment record layout for information: Assessment Number 556 
Owner: Annabel Travers 
Resource: Regeneration Service/Establishment: Supply, Distribution and Property Service 
First Name Surname Job Title
Head Officer: Annabel Travers Procurement Manager 
Include job titles/organisation
Members: Annabel Travers, Procurement Manager, West Dunbartonshire Council;
Angela Wilson, Chief Officer - Supply, Distribution and Property Service, West Dunbartonshire Council 
Please note: the word policy is used as shorthand for strategy policy function or financial decision
Policy Title: SDP01  Corporate Procurement Unit (CPU) - Transfer Non Regulated Procurements to Services 
The aim, objective, purpose and intended outcome of policy
The remit of the category team within the CPU is to develop robust procurement and contract management activity that drive and enable
business transformation and that aligns with national, local and Council strategies and delivers best value for money. 
The aim of transferring non regulated procurements into other Services is to provide efficiencies to support the balance of the budget.  
Potential outcomes could be £109,962 of efficiencies per year. 
Service/Partners/Stakeholders/service users involved in the development and/or implementation of policy
All Council Services, WD HSCP Services as well as Trade Unions.

Page 13

2 
Does the proposals involve the procurement of any goods or services? N
If yes please confirm that you have contacted our procurement services
to discuss your requirements 
SCREENING
You must indicate if there is any relevance to the four areas
Duty to eliminate discrimination (E), advance equal opportunities (A)
or foster good relations (F) Y
Relevance to Human Rights (HR) Y
Relevance to Health Impacts (H) Y
Relevance to Social Economic Impacts (SE) Y 
Who will be affected by this policy? 
All Council services, Elected Members and partner organisations including the Scottish Government. 
Who will be/has been involved in the consultation process?
Annabel Travers, Procurement Manager, West Dunbartonshire Council - conducted this high level efficiency option regarding the CPU;
Angela Wilson, Chief Officer - Supply, Distribution and Property Services, West Dunbartonshire Council - interrogated this high level
efficiency option;
Performance and Monitoring Review Group, West Dunbartonshire Council - where informed of this high level efficiency option; 
Martin Rooney, Leader of the Council - was informed of this high level efficiency option; and
Michelle McGinty, Deputy Leader of the Council - was informed of this high level efficiency option.

Page 14

3 
If this high level efficiency option regarding the CPU is to be taken forward to the next stage; staff, Trade Unions and Elected Members
will be consulted.
Please outline any particular need/barriers which equality groups may have in relation to this policy list evidence you are
using to support this and whether there is any negative impact on particular groups 
Needs Evidence Impact
Age Worries surrounding job
security may be heighten
in older staff - reiterate
the commitment to no
compulsory
redundancies 
Please see cross cutting 
https://www.gov.scot/publications/scotlands-
labour-market-people-places-regions-statistics-
annual-population-survey-2019/ 
https://www.gov.scot/publications/older-people-
employment-scotland/ 
The age profile in the current structure:
1 x staff = <24 years old
1 x staff = 25 -29 years old
1 x staff = 30 - 34 years old
4 x staff = 35 - 39 years old
3 x staff = 40 - 44 years old
1 x staff = 45 - 49 years old
1 x staff = 50 - 54 years old 
There is 1 staff who is within the 50 - 54 years old
category 
Negative - This could heightened
concerns of staff about any displacement,
as evidence suggests that those over 50
find it more difficult to regain employment
Disability Worries surrounding job
security may be heighten
in disabled staff -
reiterate the commitment
to no compulsory
redundancies 
Please see cross cutting 
HR21 report 
Disabled people in employment - House of
Commons Library (parliament.uk) 
There is at least 1 staff who is disabled
Negative - This could heightened
concerns of staff about any displacement

Page 15

4 
Needs Evidence Impact
Gender
Reassign
Please see cross cutting  Neutral
Marriage &
Civil
Partnership
Please see cross cutting  Neutral
Pregnancy
& Maternity
Please see cross cutting  Neutral
Race Please see cross cutting  Neutral
Religion &
Belief
Please see cross cutting  Neutral
Sex Worries surrounding job
security may be heighten
in women - reiterate the
commitment to no
compulsory
redundancies 
Please see cross cutting
There are 8 out of 12 staff who are women Negative - Detriment to female staff
compared to males because of make up
of workforce
Sexual
Orientation
Please see cross cutting  Neutral
Human
Rights
Please see cross cutting  Neutral
Health Worries surrounding job
security may be heighten
in staff who have Health
conditions 
Please see cross cutting
Occupational Health reports 
Of the Health screening that was undertaken
before formally offering a new job, there are at
least 4 out of 12 staff for whom the Equality
Legislation is likely to apply
Negative - This could heightened
concerns of staff about any displacement

Page 16

5 
Needs Evidence Impact
Social &
Economic
Impact
Worries surrounding job
security may be heighten
in lower payed staff -
reiterate the commitment
to no compulsory
redundancies 
Please see cross cutting
HR21 records 
There are 4 out of 12 staff who are on the lowest
grade within this structure
Negative - Detriment to lowest grade staff
due to potential work being transferred
Cross
Cutting
Identify a "champion" to
assist with understanding
of this process for staff 
Reiterate the commitment
to no compulsory
redundancies to mitigate
against any heightened
concerns 
Neutral
Policy has a negative impact on an equality group, but is still to be implemented, please provide justification for this
There is the potential for 2.6 FTE  to be displaced.  A fair process would be undertaken in line with the Council's policies.
Will the impact of the policy be monitored and reported on an ongoing bases?
Yes
What is your recommendation for this policy?
Introduce

Page 17

6 
Please provide a meaningful summary of how you have reached the recommendation
EIA 555 details impact on staff.  3.1 staff in a current structure of 12 FTE, will be potentially displaced from the structure. There are:
8 out of 12 staff are women and this could therefore affect women more;
4 out of 12 staff are on the lowest grade and therefore affect them due to operational work being  transferred to other Services;  
At least 1 out of 12 staff is disabled and this could heightened concerns about being displaced;
At least 4 out of 12 staff have health conditions and this could heightened concerns about being displaced; and
1 out of 12 staff being 50 - 55 and this could heightened concerns about being displaced, as evidence suggests that those over 50 find it
more difficult to regain employment.

Page 18

AssessmentNo 561 Owner smclelland
Resource
Regeneration,
Environment
and Growth
Service/Establishment HE Budget
 
First Name Surname Job title
Head Officer Nicola Pettigrew Manager
(include job titles/organisation)
Members Nicola Pettigrew Scott Mclelland
 
(Please note: the word 'policy' is used as shorthand for stategy policy function
or financial decision)
Policy Title HE01 - Reduction to ASB team
 
The aim, objective,purpose and intended out come of policy
As part of current savings options (23/24) for above service the objective and
purpose of this EIA is to outline impact to residents, stakeholders and staff.
 
 
Service/Partners/Stakeholders/service users involved in the development
and/or implementation of policy.
Staff tenants Residents Police Scotland local TRA groups Community Councils
Elected Members SFRS Safe and Stronger DIG ASB tasking Group Fire Reduction
Group ASBOF ASBLEF WDTRO Environmental Health Greenspace Housing West
Dunbartonshire Equality Forum
Does the proposals involve the procurement of any goods or
services? No
If yes please confirm that you have contacted our
procurement services to discuss your requirements. No
SCREENING
You must indicate if there is any relevance to the four areas
Duty to eliminate discrimination (E), advance equal
opportunities (A) or foster good relations (F) Yes
Relevance to Human Rights (HR) Yes
Relevance to Health Impacts (H) Yes
Relevance to Social Economic Impacts (SE) Yes
Who will be affected by this policy?
Staff tenants Residents Police Scotland local TRA groups Community Councils Elected Members
SFRS Safe and Stronger DIG ASB tasking Group Fire Reduction Group ASBOF ASBLEF WDTRO
Environmental Health Greenspace Housing
Who will be/has been involved in the consultation process?
There has been no consultation carried out as yet as no decision has been made however
consultation would include Staff , TUs and all stakeholders affected.
Please outline any particular need/barriers which equality groups may have in relation to
this policy list evidence you are using to support this and whether there is any negative
impact on particular groups.
 
Needs Evidence Impact
Age
Older people are
often affected by
ASB or the
perception of. This
can be true of all age
A Fairer Scotland for
Older People:
Framework for
Action. Older people
want: "Opportunities
Face to face contact
with tenants
residents within this
age group will be
reduced. There will

Page 19

group however more
so in the older
group/s. Physical
and meaningful
Engagement will be
accessed by all
groups and
delivered by ASB
staff. The reduction
to the service to two
officers will remove
a high degree of
services to the age
group
to remain actively
engaged with, and
involved in, their
communities" this
reduction with
remove significant
engagement at TRA,
face to face support
for ASB and remove
physical response to
this age group
be no public meeting
or engemange with
this age group under
ASB given this
reduction.
Cross Cutting
Participation across
all protected groups
is an opportunity to
build community
cohesion
People can
simultaneous be
members of more
than one
disadvantaged
group, which can
multiply negative
outcomes
Participation will be
challenged by this
reduction as
residents will see a
negative signal that
WDC don't care with
any reduction to ASB
services.
Disability
Evidence suggests
disabled people are
more likely to be
socially isolated, and
less likely to be
involved in
community life than
non disabled people.
There will be very
limited access to this
group with
reduction
This reduction will
remove response
and actions to this
group moving them
closer to social
isolation. due to
disability, are
remaining indoors
and more likely to be
isolated. Local
feedback suggests
some success during
lockdown, using
digital methods and
also phone calls, but
this will not be good
for everyone.
This reduction will
remove response
and actions to this
group moving them
closer to social
isolation.
Social & Economic
Impact
Increased income
(through training
opportunities,
increased benefit
take up, community
enterprise, social
investment etc.),
reduced expenditure
(debt advice,
community
transport, local food
production) and
through sharing and
redistributing
Involved, organised
and empowered
communities have
greater economic
and social strength.
ASB service feed into
this by working to
make our
communities safer.
The economic
impact of any
reduction to ASB
services is yet to be
fully realised in WDC
Communities. Our
work may need to
focus much more on
poverty and
economic recovery
and the cost of living
crisis to come, there
is an expectation
that levels of crime

Page 20

recourses,
communities can be
impacted by
Community
Development and
Capacity Building.
and ASB will
increase.
Sex
ASB services
currently engage in
community activities
which varies across
age and gender.
Impact to
engagement due to
reduction of staff.
Women are more
likely to suffer
domestic abuse and
Gender based
violence than men
Women are often
more visible and
available to engage
with our Team due
to childcare and
other need to be out
of doors even when
formal/informal
groups are not
meeting. This
reduction will
remove platform to
engage.
Gender Reassign
Those under going
or who have
undergone gender
reassignment can be
particularly
excluded from social
and in civil society, it
is important that
people have an
opportunity to
participate in their
community and give
their opinion on
things that might
effect them.
Evidence suggest
that trans people can
be more socially
isolated and more at
risk of
discrimination. This
reduction will
further isolate this
group in terms of
response and
physical support.
Evidence suggest
that trans people can
be more socially
isolated and more at
risk of
discrimination. This
reduction will
further isolate this
group in terms of
response and
physical support.
Health
Being Article 10)
and the right to
education (Article 2
of Protocol No. 1).e
to participate, being
represented and
feeling able to make
an impact on where
you live can have an
effect on both
mental and physical
health.
Our physical and
social environment
is the framework in
which our lives take
place and,
depending on
circumstances, it can
provide us with
opportunities or
limit our potential
(Scottish National
Performance
Framework). this
reduction will
impact significantly
on responding to
ASB within our
communities and
place a signal that
Efforts to engage
people meaningfully
about ASB
community will be
challenged by this
reduction due to the
lack of physical
response.

Page 21

WDC do not care
about social control
within its
communities. This is
in line with signal
crimes theory.
Human Rights
Relevant under core
civil rights, such as
the right to respect
for private and
family life (Article 8
of the Convention),
the right to freedom
of expression (Ar
Awareness of
Human Rights as
part of everyday life
is low, therefore its
relevance, nationally
there is increasing
focus from the
Scottish Government
on giving Human
Rights a more
central place
Although not
directly affecting HR,
Considering the
service from a
Human Rights
perspective can help
inform inclusive
practice however
due to reduction in
staffing this would
adversely impact on
your verbal guidance
and physical
response to cases.
Marriage & Civil
Partnership
This area cross cuts
with sex, and sexual
orientation
This area cross cuts
with sex, and sexual
orientation
This area cross cuts
with sex, and sexual
orientation. Given
the reduction there
will be no support or
physical response to
this group. Given the
reduction there will
be no support or
physical response to
this group
Pregnancy &
Maternity
This area cross cuts
with sex, and sexual
orientation
This area cross cuts
with sex, and sexual
orientation
This area cross cuts
with sex, and sexual
orientation. Given
the reduction there
will be no support or
physical response to
this group
Race
The ASB team
Communities Team
core function is to
respond and address
any ASB concerns
for all protected
groups.
People from BME
groups are much
more likely to be the
subject of racist hate
incidents and crimes
Evidence from
Scottish Social
Attitudes surveys
and other sources
suggests that people
who have contact
with people from
other groups are less
likely to hold
negative views on
This reduction will
remove reporting
platforms and
response to any ASB
concerns with the
loss of physical
engagement.

Page 22

those groups.
Religion and Belief
ASB services have
always respected
events and activities
and would seek to
avoid common times
of worship
Event timing and
venue can affect
people ability to take
part, with the
reduction to two
officers this now
might not be
achievable due to
demand and loss of
resources.
Event timing and
venue can affect
people ability to take
part, with the
reduction to two
officers this now
might not be
achievable due to
demand and loss of
resources. There is
also the aspect of
restricted to no
response with lower
staffing to this
group.
Sexual Orientation
Services need to be
accessible including ,
those aiming to
support
participation and
empowerment
Impact to
engagement due to
reduction of staff.
Whilst will ensure
that we will design
in engagement to be
inclusive, in both
genreral
engagement,
ahttps://www.equal
ity-network.org/wp-
ontent/uploads/201
3/02/Community-
Connections-1.-
Engaging-LGBT-
People.pdfnd where
specific . We will
face significant
reduction to physical
and verbal
engagement with
this group to the the
reduction of staff
Actions
Policy has a negative impact on an equality group,but is still to be implemented, please
provide justification for this.
There is high potential for some equality groups to be less frequently or meaningfully involved
with the ASB Team due to this reduction. Face to Face engagement with subject citizen's at door
step, in community meetings will be fewer to none. The service will only be able to offer telephony
support. Moving to a phone based service, it is vital to have measures in place to allow access, e.g.
an process to ensure that non English speakers can get through with Language Line support for
calls. Phone based services may present more of a barrier to BSL users, and this would need to be
mitigated. Part of these measures would be directed communication to people generally and
certain groups particularly about changes/access in to the service. As noted systems to mitigate
would need to be in place supported by staff training.
Will the impact of the policy be monitored and reported on an ongoing bases?
Yes. The policy will be monitored in line with decision on services.
Q7 What is you recommendation for this policy?

Page 23

Don't Introduce
Please provide a meaningful summary of how you have reached the recommendation
EIA 561 -HE01 (1) and (2) details potential negative impacts of this proposed service reduction,
and necessary mitigation. The ASB team support all people across West Dunbartonshire which
include all protected groups. These groups and membership is made up of people from equalities
groups; most notably disabled people, older people and women. The suggested reduction's to
service will have a negative impact of a range of protected groups and remove physical response
and support to our most vulnerable residents in terms of ASB, case management and any pending
legal action to remove/control the behaviours of Anti- Social offender's . Option 1 - Reduce ASB
Service by 2 ASB backshift/weekend officers and no longer deal with non WDC tenure cases.
However, retain 6 ASB Officers and 1 Team Leader (4 ASB Officers backshift/weekend shifts, 2 ASB
Officers and Team Leader dayshift). This reduction would have significant impact on service
provision, but enable WDC to continue to provide day/backshift and weekend provision
(backshift/weekend 3pm-2am) for cases whereby there is WDC tenure involvement. However, the
reality of this option being implemented would mean that the ASB service would only deal with
calls if one of the parties involved were a WDC tenant. Option 2 - The reduction from 9 staff
members to 2 will have an significant negative impact on our communities and protected groups.
The impact to affected staff members will undoubtedly be catastrophic both from the employment
loss and financial lose in a time where disposable income is non existent. Further to this, the
knowledge and skill of the affected staff is irreplaceable and our partner agencies can't absorb
this/their skilled work, again this will affect all protected groups and our 90k+ Tenants/Residents
to who we serve if this reduction is adopted and implemented.

Page 24

AssessmentNo 567 Owner sbrooks
Resource
Regeneration,
Environment
and Growth
Service/Establishment HE Budget
 
First Name Surname Job title
Head Officer Stephen Brooks Working4U Manager
(include job titles/organisation)
Members Peter Barry Chief Officer Housing and Employability Ricardo Rea Performance and
Strategy Officer
 
(Please note: the word 'policy' is used as shorthand for stategy policy function
or financial decision)
Policy Title HE02ab Apprenticeship pathway, Modern Apprenticeship Scheme options
 
The aim, objective,purpose and intended out come of policy
Reduction of Council investment in the Apprenticeship Pathway: affecting Modern
Apprenticeships, foundation Apprenticeships, in-work progression. The
assessment reviews the comparative impact of reducing the Council’s annual
investment of £250,000 by 20% and reducing the investment to £0.
 
 
Service/Partners/Stakeholders/service users involved in the development
and/or implementation of policy.
Working4U delivers the apprenticeship pathway activity. This has contributed to
West Dunbartonshire Council workforce development in a range of Council
services recruitment and training of Modern Apprenticeships. It also has an impact
on Education Services' and their access to the Foundation Apprenticeship scheme
that assists young people to make the transition from school to work. Other
stakeholders include HSCP services such as Care Services that are seeking to
upskill their workforce.
Does the proposals involve the procurement of any goods or
services? Yes
If yes please confirm that you have contacted our
procurement services to discuss your requirements. No
SCREENING
You must indicate if there is any relevance to the four areas
Duty to eliminate discrimination (E), advance equal
opportunities (A) or foster good relations (F) Yes
Relevance to Human Rights (HR) No
Relevance to Health Impacts (H) No
Relevance to Social Economic Impacts (SE) Yes
Who will be affected by this policy?
The Apprenticeship Investment Fund is managed by Working4U and is used as the basis for the
Apprenticeship Pathway. This includes • Modern Apprenticeship Programme - Providing access to
a modern apprenticeship either within the Council or the wider economy; • Foundation
Apprenticeship Programme – support for young people at school to obtain sector specific training;
and • In-work progression (as an alternative approach to adult apprenticeships). Improving
people’s position in the workplace through access to training that could lead to an increase in pay.
Since 2018 the team has supported 407 people. This includes 290 people as Modern Apprentices
or in-work progression (in work training to improve salary or position in the workplace). In
addition in the past two years, the team has supported 118 people through Foundation

Page 25

Apprenticeships, allowing school students to develop their understanding of careers and skill
requirements in civil engineering, social care, childcare and business skills. Those affected will be:
• young people in the 15-17 years age group being supported through the Foundation
apprenticeship scheme; • Young people in the 16-24 years age group being supported though the
Modern Apprenticeship programme; • Older workers seeking to improve their skill sets and secure
better jobs with improved terms and conditions (increased salary).
Who will be/has been involved in the consultation process?
The equalities impact assessment has been produced as part of the process for assessing the
potential savings options being explored by the Council. The consultation has included elected
members and senior council officials. The Apprenticeship Pathway is being continually developed
and delivered by the Youth Employability and Literacies Team at Working4U. The Team is
responsible for the development/design and delivery of youth employability service provision the
delivery of contracted ‘National Training Programmes’. The Working4U service manager has
provided the information for the assessment. Further consultation will take place with Council
services that use the Modern Apprenticeship and Foundation Apprenticeship scheme when more
details about the level of investment are available. This will include a range of council departments
(Education, Housing, Building Services) and HSCP service providers.
Please outline any particular need/barriers which equality groups may have in relation to
this policy list evidence you are using to support this and whether there is any negative
impact on particular groups.
 
Needs Evidence Impact
Age
West
Dunbartonshire has
a population that has
a higher than
average number of
people with no
qualifications, a
lower employment
rate and the
participation rate for
school leavers is
comparatively lower
than the Scottish
average and the
average in the city
region. The
Apprenticeship
Investment Fund
provides access to
opportunities for
young people to
achieve their career
ambitions by
providing access to
good quality
employment with
associated
qualifications.
Apprentices learn
real-life industry
skills while they
work towards a
There are a number
of key statistics that
demonstrate the
need for investment
in employability
skills development
for young people
through
apprenticeships. •
NOMIS annual
population survey:
No Qualification
Rate of 14.3% in
West
Dunbartonshire.
Almost 4% higher
than the Scottish
Figure. • NOMIS
annual population
survey: Employment
rate (70.6%) almost
3% lower than the
figure for Scotland. •
Scottish Government
Initial School leaver
destination survey:
West
Dunbartonshire has
a figure of 91% for
school leavers
securing a positive
destination. This is
Using a scale from
no impact through,
slight (low impact),
moderate (between
no impact and
severe); serious (not
the worst case, but
extremely
challenging) and
severe (worst case
with significant
negative impact).
Given the scale of
challenges faced in
West
Dunbartonshire, a
20% reduction of
investment in
modern and
foundation
apprenticeships
(reducing the fund
by £50,000 each
year) will have a
negative but
moderate impact on
access to
opportunities for
young people.
Reducing the
contribution to the
improvement of

Page 26

qualification that’s
accredited by the
Scottish
Qualifications
Agency.
approximately 4%
lower than the figure
for Scotland.
school leaver
destinations,
improving the
qualifications and
increasing the
employment rate.
Ending support for
the apprenticeship
pathway by reducing
the investment fund
to £0 will have a
severe impact. West
Dunbartonshire will
lose the ability to
influence key
indicators:
qualification levels
and employment
rate, that have an
impact on the
quality of life for
residents. It will
have a negative
effect on the
opportunities
available and will
reduce access to
good quality
employment.
Cross Cutting
Disability
The Council has
committed to
increasing
workforce diversity
in its Equality
Outcomes for 21-25
The work in this
area had a part to
play in supporting
these outcomes
It is possible that
reduction may
negatively impact on
the ability of the
Council to achieve its
equality outcomes
Social & Economic
Impact
West
Dunbartonshire has
a population that has
a higher than
average number of
people with no
qualifications than
the Scottish average
and the average in
the city region. The
Apprenticeship
Investment Fund
provides the
foundation for
providing additional
support that will
provide access to
There are a number
of key statistics that
demonstrate the
need for investment
in employability
skills development
for young people
through
apprenticeships. •
NOMIS annual
population survey:
No Qualification
Rate of 14.3% in
West
Dunbartonshire.
Almost 4% higher
than the Scottish
Using a scale from
no impact through,
slight (low impact),
moderate (between
no impact and
severe); serious (not
the worst case, but
extremely
challenging) and
severe (worst case
with significant
negative impact).
Given the scale of
challenges faced in
West
Dunbartonshire, a
20% reduction of

Page 27

opportunities for
people to progress
within the
workplace. They will
achieve this by
securing the
relevant
qualifications
required for
advancement in
their chosen
professions. Those
supported with in-
work progression
learn the industry
skills and work
towards a
qualification within
their workplace
that’s accredited by
the Scottish
Qualifications
Agency. This
includes support to
achieve the required
(mandatory)
qualifications to
work in the care
sector.
Figure. • NOMIS
annual population
survey: Employment
rate (70.6%) almost
3% lower than the
figure for Scotland.
investment in
modern and
foundation
apprenticeships
(reducing the fund
by £50,000 each
year) will have a
negative but
moderate impact on
our ability to
continue with the in-
work progression
for those working in
the care sector.
Reducing the
contribution to
improving the
qualifications and
the development of a
skilled workforce.
Ending support for
the apprenticeship
pathway by reducing
the investment fund
to £0 will have a
severe impact. West
Dunbartonshire will
lose the ability to
influence key
indicators:
qualification levels
that have an impact
on the quality of life
for residents. It will
have a negative
effect on the
opportunities
available; reduce in
work progression
and affect residents
access to
opportunity.
Sex
The Council has
committed to
increasing
workforce diversity,
and reducing gender
segregation in
certain roles in its
Equality Outcomes
for 21-25
The work in this
area had a part to
play in supporting
these outcomes
It is possible that
reduction may
negatively impact on
the ability of the
Council to achieve its
equality outcomes
Gender Reassign
Health

Page 28

Human Rights
Marriage & Civil
Partnership
Pregnancy &
Maternity
Race
The Council has
committed to
increasing
workforce diversity
in its Equality
Outcomes for 21-25
The work in this
area had a part to
play in supporting
these outcomes
It is possible that
reduction may
negatively impact on
the ability of the
Council to achieve its
equality outcomes
Religion and Belief
Sexual Orientation
Actions
Policy has a negative impact on an equality group,but is still to be implemented, please
provide justification for this.
The comparison of options has been produced as a direct result of the need to identify potential
savings that will contribute to the Council budget deficit. There will be a negative impact in
applying both reductions: a 20% reduction equivalent to £50,000 reduction each year; or a full
reduction of £250,000 each year with investment in apprenticeships reduced to £0. We have used
a scale from no impact to severe impact to illustrate the impact and as a basis for decision making.
• no impact; • slight (low impact), • moderate (between no impact and severe); • serious (not the
worst case, but extremely challenging); and • severe (worst case with significant negative impact).
The reduction of the apprenticeship investment fund by 20% will be moderate. The team will be
able to continue to deliver support that will support young people to secure opportunities and
older people to achieve in-work progression. The Team, through contracting National Programmes
and prudent use of the annual apprenticeship investment, has levered a further £1.4m into West
Dunbartonshire. This has been used to ensure we have the appropriate expertise to deliver
apprenticeships, manage and deliver training and support and pay for ongoing training and college
costs for the apprentices. Maintaining the Apprenticeship Fund will allow the gains to be
consolidated and continue the leverage of funds to West Dunbartonshire, albeit on a lower scale.
The reduction of the Apprenticeship investment fund to £0 will be severe. The capability and
expertise to support young people into careers and older people’s in-work progression will be lost.
We will not be able to support any activity and as a result West Dunbartonshire workforce
development plans will be seriously affected. In addition the potential for levering in funds through
national programmes will be lost.
Will the impact of the policy be monitored and reported on an ongoing bases?
This will depend on the decisions regarding the level of apprenticeship investment that the Council
makes. If the decision is to reduce the investment to £0 there will be no capacity to monitor the
impact.
Q7 What is you recommendation for this policy?
Modify
Please provide a meaningful summary of how you have reached the recommendation
EIA 567; This assessment details impacts of this proposals which forms part of a suite of
reductions to Working4U service provision. The option to reduce the apprenticeship investment
will have a substantial negative impact on the Council’s ability to provide support for young people
making the transition from school to work. It may also negative effect progress on the Councils
Equality Outcomes for 21-25. Of the options identified the preferred option would be to reduce the
investment fund by 20%, saving £50,000 each year. Although this also has a negative effect on the
Council’s ability to support young people, the effect is much less profound.

Page 29

AssessmentNo 569 Owner LPENNYCOOK
Resource Transformation Service/Establishment Budget Ed
 
First Name Surname Job title
Head Officer Kathy Morrison Senior Education Officer
(include job titles/organisation)
Members
Laura Mason - Chief Education Officer Julie McGrogan - Senior Education
Officer Andrew Brown - Senior Education Officer Claire Cusick - Senior
Education Officer Ellen Moran - Principal Educational Psychologist
 
(Please note: the word 'policy' is used as shorthand for stategy policy
function or financial decision)
Policy Title EDU-03 Reduce Learning Assistants
 
The aim, objective,purpose and intended out come of policy
This reduction represents three Learning Assistant posts, allocated in
addition to centrally allocated learning assistants at our Early Learning
and Childcare Centres (ELCC). Deletion of the additional posts would limit
capacity to provide additional support where required. A reduction in
hours of Learning Assistant at ELCC will impact targeted support provided
to children with additional support needs/learning requirements. There is
one vacant post and two posts contracted to June 2023 (the vacancy will
not be filled). Both posts are allocated for additional support for children
with significant needs.
 
 
Service/Partners/Stakeholders/service users involved in the
development and/or implementation of policy.
HT/HOC’s, HR, TU’s, Finance Officers and Education staff.
Does the proposals involve the procurement of any goods or
services? Yes
If yes please confirm that you have contacted our
procurement services to discuss your requirements. Yes
SCREENING
You must indicate if there is any relevance to the four areas
Duty to eliminate discrimination (E), advance equal
opportunities (A) or foster good relations (F) Yes
Relevance to Human Rights (HR) Yes
Relevance to Health Impacts (H) Yes
Relevance to Social Economic Impacts (SE) Yes
Who will be affected by this policy?
Decisions taken will impact on services to children and young people and on staff who
deliver these services. A reduction in hours of Learning Assistant at ELCC will impact
targeted support provided to children with additional support needs/learning
requirements.
Who will be/has been involved in the consultation process?
These are temporary posts which are allocated on a needs basis to our ELCC on a school
sessional basis. The posts are fixed term contracts which would not be renewed.
Consultation with HT/HOC's, HR, TUs, Finance and staff involved.
Please outline any particular need/barriers which equality groups may have in
relation to this policy list evidence you are using to support this and whether there
is any negative impact on particular groups.

Page 30

Needs Evidence Impact
Age
Cross Cutting
Disability
The Council had a
duty to make its
services accessible
to disabled people,
including pupils.
This is an
anticipatory duty.
We must seek to
mitigate any
negative impacts.
ASN support is
provided to pupils
some of whom are
disabled in terms of
the Equality Act
2010.
Reduction may
negatively impact on
disabled pupils and
their families.
Social & Economic
Impact
The numbers of
children with
additional support
needs and the
complexity of their
needs has increased
at ELC. Some
children are
adversely impacted
by poverty. The
nature of support
required for children
has intensified and
requires more
continuous and long
term interventions.
The most effective
supports are based
on those supported
by significant
relationships with a
key adult.
Positive Impact
Reduction in staff
costs. Negative
Impact Learning
assistants are almost
all women who are
unqualified workers,
often working in two
jobs to support their
own children and
families. Therefore,
this reduction would
impact those who
are in one of the
lowest paid groups
of workers in the
Council. There will
be less staff available
to support children
with additional
support needs.
Sex Need to assess
differential impacts
There are more
female than male
learning assistants.
Women are more
likely to be
negatively impacted
by the reduction in
posts.
Gender Reassign
Health
Human Rights
UNCRC The numbers
of children with
additional support
needs and the
complexity of their
needs has increased
at ELC. Some
children are
adversely impacted
by poverty. The
nature of support
Negative Impact
Learning assistants
are almost all
women who are
unqualified workers,
often working in two
jobs to support their
own children and
families. Therefore,
this reduction would
impact those who

Page 31

required for children
has intensified and
requires more
continuous and long
term interventions.
The most effective
supports are based
on those supported
by significant
relationships with a
key adult.
are in one of the
lowest paid groups
of workers in the
Council. There will
be less staff available
to support children
with additional
support needs.
Marriage & Civil
Partnership
Pregnancy &
Maternity
Race
Religion and Belief
Sexual Orientation
Actions
Policy has a negative impact on an equality group,but is still to be implemented,
please provide justification for this.
As above.
Will the impact of the policy be monitored and reported on an ongoing bases?
We will monitor impact by consulting staff involved. HR monitoring of the demographic of
staff potentially affected. Monitoring will be carried out on a termly basis.
Q7 What is you recommendation for this policy?
Intoduce
Please provide a meaningful summary of how you have reached the
recommendation
EIA 569 details impact: These are temporary posts which are allocated on a needs basis to
our ELCC on a school sessional basis. The posts are fixed term contracts which would not
be renewed. Research has been carried out in consultation with the following: GIRFEC
Children and Young People (Scotland) Act 2014 Recommendations UNCRC Best Start:
Strategic early learning and childcare plan for Scotland 2022-26 A key outcome of the Best
Start Plan is children’s development improves and the poverty related outcome gap
narrows.

Page 32

AssessmentNo 578 Owner sbrooks
Resource
Regeneration,
Environment
and Growth
Service/Establishment HE Budget
 
First Name Surname Job title
Head Officer Stephen Brooks Working4U Manager
(include job titles/organisation)
Members Peter Barry Chief Officer Housing and Employability
 
(Please note: the word 'policy' is used as shorthand for stategy policy function
or financial decision)
Policy Title HE07ab Assessment of impact reduction to W4U of 8% or 25%
 
The aim, objective,purpose and intended out come of policy
Consider the impact on services as a result of reduction in budget income by 8%
and by 25%
 
 
Service/Partners/Stakeholders/service users involved in the development
and/or implementation of policy.
Elected Members, Senior WDC Staff, senior W4U staff
Does the proposals involve the procurement of any goods or
services? Yes
If yes please confirm that you have contacted our
procurement services to discuss your requirements. No
SCREENING
You must indicate if there is any relevance to the four areas
Duty to eliminate discrimination (E), advance equal
opportunities (A) or foster good relations (F) Yes
Relevance to Human Rights (HR) Yes
Relevance to Health Impacts (H) No
Relevance to Social Economic Impacts (SE) Yes
Who will be affected by this policy?
Staff, service users Working 4U seeks to address the underlying causes of poverty, as well as the
symptoms, by specifically tackling unemployment, providing opportunities to increase levels of
education, skills, confidence and personal development as well support to claim in and out of work
benefits and manage debt. The specialist components of Working 4U’s services are: Learning and
Development that supports disadvantaged or vulnerable groups and individuals of all ages to
engage in learning. This covers a range of activity, such as youth work, family and adult learning,
including adult literacy and English for Speakers of Other languages (ESOL) and community
development and capacity building. Working 4U’s focus is on youth work and family and adult
learning. Employability encompasses all the things that enable people to improve their quality of
life by increasing their chances of getting a job, staying in a job, and progressing further in work.
The focus of our work is placed on supporting those that are facing the most intense levels of
disadvantage, including families most likely to be affected by child poverty, young people, older
workers, long-term unemployed and people from equalities groups. Benefit /debt Information and
Advice National standards state that all debt counselling, income maximisation support, money
advice and welfare benefit advice services service providers must be committed to providing
equity of access to services for all. We provide a service that is open to all; however, given the
socio/economic circumstances we prioritise people who are most vulnerable to disadvantage. In
our service delivery we will place emphasis on supporting people facing difficult life transitions,

Page 33

including, for example: • Those with life limiting conditions; • People affected by mental health
issues; • Those affected by drug and alcohol mis-use; • Those affected by housing and
homelessness • Newly unemployed and retired. In addition, we place emphasis on supporting
families with children who are more susceptible to poverty and disadvantage, including families
with children: • where the mother is under 25 years of age; • larger families; • minority ethnic
households; • lone parent families; • families with children under 1 year old. • Families and
children with experience of the care system; • Children with caring responsibilities; and • Those
living in areas of high material deprivation.
Who will be/has been involved in the consultation process?
Consultation has been carried out in the context of the budget review. This has included
consultation among Elected Members, senior Council staff and managers at Working4U.
Please outline any particular need/barriers which equality groups may have in relation to
this policy list evidence you are using to support this and whether there is any negative
impact on particular groups.
 
Needs Evidence Impact
Age Child poverty is
focus for the Council
High child poverty in
WDC 18-30 year
olds are
experiencing
particular economic
strain
Reduced may result
in negative impacts
for children and
young people
Cross Cutting
Working4U seeks to
improve the quality
of lives for people
from disadvantaged
backgrounds who
are most likely to be
affected by
inequality, poverty
and disadvantage
which is driven by
structural or
institutional factors.
These factors
include: • Income
from social security
and benefits in kind,
influenced by: o
design and
generosity of
welfare benefits; o
benefit sanctions
and recovery of
advance payments; o
hardship payments
and third-party
debts; o barriers to
accessing financial
support (including
child maintenance).
• Income from
employment,
influenced by the
The key drivers of
poverty identified in
the legislation
include income
levels and the cost of
living. Income is
determined, to an
extent, by levels of
economic activity
and employment.
While there are
many sources of
labour market
information,
examples provided
by NOMIS (Office for
National Statistics
Labour Market
Profile - Nomis -
Official Census and
Labour Market
Statistics
(nomisweb.co.uk))
will illustrate West
Dunbartonshire’s
comparative labour
market profile to
suggest the need for
targeted
employability
support.
Employment and
There are two
options for
consideration. Both
of these option focus
on staff costs. •
Option 1 Reducing
internal costs by 8%;
• Option 2 Reducing
internal costs by
25%. Option 1:
Reducing internal
staff costs by 8%
The value of staff
costs that are funded
through the
Council’s core
budget is
approximately
£2.29m. Reduction
of Working4U
service by 8% will
have a value of
£183,351. This will
affect approximately
4.5 members of staff
all of whom will, by
necessity of our
funding sources,
come from either
our Community
Learning and
Development team

Page 34

availability of jobs,
hours and the level
of earnings, and
barriers to taking up
that work, such as
childcare
responsibilities; plus
qualifications and
skills, which can
influence both
contemporary and
future child poverty.
• Costs of living,
including housing,
food and fuel costs,
the poverty
premium, the costs
of the school day,
and the extra,
unavoidable costs of
disability or living in
a rural area. We
provide support
because: • People
don’t always claim
the benefits they are
entitled to; • The
benefits system is
difficult to
understand; •
Navigating the
process without
assistance can lead
to errors; • Appeals
without help can
lead to wrong
decisions; •
Understanding
welfare reform is
difficult. • People
face physical and
psychological
barriers to
employment and
learning
opportunities
because of personal
circumstances and
professional support
will help people to
overcome these
barriers. • Its
difficult to maintain
Economic Activity:
West
Dunbartonshire has
a comparatively
higher rate of
economic inactivity
with 26.2% of the
16-64 years age
group in
employment. The
comparative figure
for Scotland is
23.8% and Great
Britain’s figure is
21.6%. At 19%, West
Dunbartonshire has
a higher proportion
of workless
households than
both Scotland
(18.1%) and Great
Britain (13.6%). Of
those in
employment, there
is a higher
proportion in West
Dunbartonshire
reliant on part-time
work (35.5%). This
is higher than the
figure for Scotland
(33.2%) and Great
Britain (32.1%). A
review of the NOMIS
statistics reveals
that the job density
in West
Dunbartonshire is
estimated at 0.61;
this is much lower
than the figure for
Glasgow (1.04);
Scotland (0.80) and
Great Britain (0.84).
In effect, although
there are
comparatively
higher numbers of
people out of work,
there are also
comparatively fewer
opportunities
available in West
or our welfare
benefits/debt team
or a combination of
both. This will have
an impact on both
team’s ability to
meet growing
demand for their
services and will
create further
challenges for the
teams. This is
particularly the case
for
benefit/advice/debt
team who are
experiencing higher
levels of demand
from increasing
numbers of people
with a growing
complexity of
concerns related to
the cost of living
crisis. A reduction of
4.5 ftes in Welfare
Rights is equivalent
to a 20% reduction
of this team. Leading
to lower level of
benefit
maximisation and
debt management
activity (including
housing and council
tax arrears). This
will lead to
continuing levels of
disadvantage and
greater demand on
crisis support
services. The welfare
rights team has, on
average each year,
supported residents
to maximise benefit
income with a value
of £7.2m and
managed debt
£2.4m: 8% reduction
equivalent to 20% of
the team will lead to
a loss of £1.4m in

Page 35

jobsearch
momentum and
participating in
learning without
professional, expert
support.
Dunbartonshire.
Addressing
unemployment and
underemployment is
consistent with
addressing the
income drivers of
poverty and will
therefore feature
extensively in our
approach to
addressing child
poverty. Benefits
The number of
people in receipt of
out of work benefits
is a contributory
factor to the level of
child poverty. In
West
Dunbartonshire
4.5% of the
population in the 16-
64 years group is in
receipt of out of
work benefits. This
is higher than the
average in Scotland
(3.2%) and Great
Britain (3.8%) and
represents 2,525
people. 18.4% of
households in West
Dunbartonshire are
in receipt of the
main benefits. This
compares
unfavourably with
the figure for
Scotland (13%) and
Great Britain (11%) .
In effect,
comparatively more
people in West
Dunbartonshire rely
on benefits for their
income. Maximising
their entitlement
will feature strongly
in our approach to
maximising income
annual income for
most disadvantaged
residents and
reduction in
managing debt of
approx. £480,000 A
reduction of 4.5 ftes
in Community
Learning will be the
equivalent of a 20%
reduction of the
team (youth/adult
literacies, youth
diversionary
activities, summer
programmes). The
result will be a
decrease in adult
literacy support and
youth diversionary
activities, school
holiday programmes
and youth
representation. This
savings option will
place more pressure
on schools, police
and other services to
address the absence
of these services.
The teams have
contributed to 993
people entering
education or
training; and 457
people gaining a
qualification. 20%
reduction will lead
to fewer people
securing access to
learning
opportunities (200
fewer); and 90 fewer
people securing a
qualification. Option
2: Reducing internal
staff costs by 25%
Reduction of
Working4U service
by 25% will
generate a potential
saving value of
£572,971. This will

Page 36

affect 18.3 FTE. All
of whom will, by
necessity of our
funding sources,
come from either
our Community
Learning and
Development Team
or our Welfare
Benefits/Debt Team
or a combination of
both. The effect of
this level of saving
on both welfare
rights and
community learning
would be significant.
18.3fte is equivalent
to 75% of the staff in
each team. This
represents a
substantial
reduction in the
teams’ activity and
will have a
significant impact on
the lives of those
people that W4U
targets for support.
For example, this
would lead to a
reduction of income
generated for the
most disadvantage
in West
Dunbartonshire by
£5.4million each
year. The number
gaining
qualifications would
be reduced 342
people and the
number entering
education and/or
training would
reduce by 342
people. The table
below provides a
summary of the
comparative
reduction in
productivity
associated with 8%

Page 37

and 25% reduction
in budget. Total
Value (£) of Income
Generated:
£7.2million (8%)
£1.4m (loss) (25%)
£5.4m (loss) Value
(£) of new debt
managed: £2.49m
(8%) £0.48m (loss)
(25%) £1.86m (loss)
Number entering
education or
training 993 (8%)
198 (fewer)
(25%)744 (fewer)
Number gaining a
full qualification 457
91 (fewer) (25%)
342 (fewer) *8%
reduction is
equivalent to 20% of
the staff
complement in
teams likely to be
affected **25% is
equivalent to 75% of
the staff
complement in
teams likely to be
affected Sharing the
reduction between
both teams will
reduce the impact.
However in both
cases it will have an
impact on the
services ability to
maintain the current
level of service
provision at a time
when demand from
the most
disadvantaged
people in West
Dunbartonshire is
intensifying.
Disability
Our child poverty
report notes
disabled people as
priority group
Disabled people and
those living in a
household with a
disabled person are
more likely to be
income deprived
Reduced provision
may affect efforts to
reduce poverty for
this group

Page 38

Social & Economic
Impact
Reducing child
poverty is a focus for
the council
Groups noted above
may be especially
vulnerable, as well
as other with low
incomes
Reduced provision
may result in
reduced ability to
tackle economic and
financial inequality
Sex
Our child poverty
report notes women
people as priority
group
Women comprise
90% of single
parents who are
more likely to be
income deprived
Reduced provision
may affect women
disproportionately
compared to men
Gender Reassign
Health
Human Rights
Human Rights Act;
For example Article
8 family life UNCRC
(Best practice)
The work of W4U
supports elements of
human rights
Reduced provision
may negatively
affect the fulfillment
of rights
Marriage & Civil
Partnership
Pregnancy &
Maternity Cross cuts with sex Cross cuts with sex Cross cuts with Sex
Race
Our child poverty
report notes people
from BME groups as
a priority group
People from BME
groups more likely
to me more income
deprived
Reduced provision
may affect efforts to
reduce poverty for
this group
Religion and Belief
Sexual Orientation
Actions
Policy has a negative impact on an equality group,but is still to be implemented, please
provide justification for this.
The options have been generated as a contribution to the discussions about budget reductions
within Working4U in order to assist the Council to manage its budget deficit.
Will the impact of the policy be monitored and reported on an ongoing bases?
Working4U has a monitoring framework for reporting output and impacts of its activities. This
includes key performance indicators illustrating the statistics for the number of people supported
and the outcome of that support. This will provide information that will determine how funding
resources are deployed.
Q7 What is you recommendation for this policy?
Modify
Please provide a meaningful summary of how you have reached the recommendation
Assessment 578 provides information about the impact of a budget reduction of 8% and 25% for
Working4U. The information will be used as part of the option assessment. A 25% reduction will
have a substantial impact on service provision affecting the most vulnerable households in West
Dunbartonshire. While an 8% reduction has less of an impact it should be considered in light of
changes within other funding sources that Working4U currently has available. Reductions in
European Funding and No One Left Behind Funding, which have yet to be decided, will have a
further negative impact beyond the savings required by the Council. Reductions show potential
negative impacts for some groups in particular women, disabled people, children people from BME
Groups.

Page 39

AssessmentNo 579 Owner sbrooks
Resource
Regeneration,
Environment
and Growth
Service/Establishment HE Budget
 
First Name Surname Job title
Head Officer Stephen Brooks Working4U Manager
(include job titles/organisation)
Members Peter Barry
 
(Please note: the word 'policy' is used as shorthand for stategy policy function or
financial decision)
Policy Title HE08d Assessment of impact - WDCAB
 
The aim, objective,purpose and intended out come of policy
The aim is to assess the impact on services by contributing to reduction of Council
budget deficit by reducing service costs in a range between 25% and 90%. WD CAB
currently receives £349,137 each year from West Dunbartonshire Council to deliver
services that complement existing services provided by West Dunbartonshire
Council
 
 
Service/Partners/Stakeholders/service users involved in the development
and/or implementation of policy.
Senior Council staff and elected members have been involved in the development of
the assessment.
Does the proposals involve the procurement of any goods or
services? Yes
If yes please confirm that you have contacted our procurement
services to discuss your requirements. No
SCREENING
You must indicate if there is any relevance to the four areas
Duty to eliminate discrimination (E), advance equal
opportunities (A) or foster good relations (F) No
Relevance to Human Rights (HR) No
Relevance to Health Impacts (H) No
Relevance to Social Economic Impacts (SE) Yes
Who will be affected by this policy?
West Dunbartonshire CAB delivers a proactive, accessible, independent, customer-focused advice
service for residents of West Dunbartonshire. This includes the provision of Welfare Rights, Money
Advice and Debt Advice and support for the submission of benefits applications and appeals, where
appropriate. The service provided is not restricted to those elements in and may also include
assistance to clients in other areas of expertise where there is a benefit to them. This includes, for
example, employment, housing or consumer rights, whilst taking into account the need to minimise
duplication in advice provision in West Dunbartonshire. The service is open to anyone seeking
support and is provided locally, in communities and within locations that effectively meet the needs
of residents in West Dunbartonshire. West Dunbartonshire CAB adopts a flexible and collaborative
service which includes out-of-hours, home visits and outreach provision as appropriate.
Who will be/has been involved in the consultation process?
Senior staff and Elected Members at West Dunbartonshire Council have been involved in the
consultation process.
Please outline any particular need/barriers which equality groups may have in relation to

Page 40

this policy list evidence you are using to support this and whether there is any negative
impact on particular groups.
 
Needs Evidence Impact
Age
Cross Cutting
WDCAB from
disadvantaged
backgrounds who
are most likely to be
affected by
inequality, poverty
and disadvantage
which is driven by
structural or
institutional factors.
These factors
include lack of
information about: •
Income from social
security and benefits
in kind, influenced
by: o design and
generosity of
welfare benefits; o
benefit sanctions
and recovery of
advance payments; o
hardship payments
and third-party
debts; o barriers to
accessing financial
support (including
child maintenance).
• Costs of living,
including housing,
food and fuel costs,
the poverty
premium, the costs
of the school day,
and the extra,
unavoidable costs of
disability. • People
are unaware of their
employment rights
WDCAB provide
support because: •
People don’t always
claim the benefits
they are entitled to;
• The benefits
system is difficult to
understand; •
Navigating the
process without
The key drivers of
poverty identified in
the legislation
include income
levels and the cost of
living. Income is
determined, to an
extent, by levels of
economic activity
and employment.
While there are
many sources of
labour market
information,
examples provided
by NOMIS (Office for
National Statistics
Labour Market
Profile - Nomis -
Official Census and
Labour Market
Statistics
(nomisweb.co.uk))
will illustrate West
Dunbartonshire’s
comparative labour
market profile to
suggest the need for
targeted
employability
support.
Employment and
Economic Activity:
West
Dunbartonshire has
a comparatively
higher rate of
economic inactivity
with 26.2% of the
16-64 years age
group in
employment. The
comparative figure
for Scotland is
23.8% and Great
Britain’s figure is
21.6%. At 19%, West
Dunbartonshire has
a higher proportion
There are four
options for
consideration. These
options focus on a
reduction in the
level of grant
provided by the
Council and the
impact this will have
on the services and
impact of those
services to residents
of West
Dunbartonshire. WD
CAB receives
£349,137 each year
from West
Dunbartonshire
Council. • Option 1
Reducing grant by
25% (£87,284) –
remaining grant
£261,853. • Option 2
Reducing internal
costs by 50%
(£174,569) –
Remaining grant
£174,569. • Option 3
Reducing grant by
75% (£261,853)
Remaining Grant
£87,284. • Option 4
reducing the grant
by 90% (£314,223)
Remaining Grant
£34,914. Note:
WDCAB receives
funding from other
sources (£219,000
from Citizens Advice
Scotland). As such,
WDCAB is not totally
reliant on the
Council for funding.
WDCAB has a
number of key
performance
indicators reflecting
the activities that are

Page 41

assistance can lead
to errors; • Appeals
without help can
lead to wrong
decisions; •
Understanding
welfare reform is
difficult.
of workless
households than
both Scotland
(18.1%) and Great
Britain (13.6%). Of
those in
employment, there
is a higher
proportion in West
Dunbartonshire
reliant on part-time
work (35.5%). This
is higher than the
figure for Scotland
(33.2%) and Great
Britain (32.1%). A
review of the NOMIS
statistics reveals
that the job density
in West
Dunbartonshire is
estimated at 0.61;
this is much lower
than the figure for
Glasgow (1.04);
Scotland (0.80) and
Great Britain (0.84).
In effect, although
there are
comparatively
higher numbers of
people out of work,
there are also
comparatively fewer
opportunities
available in West
Dunbartonshire.
Addressing
unemployment and
underemployment is
consistent with
addressing the
income drivers of
poverty and will
therefore feature
extensively in our
approach to
addressing child
poverty. Benefits
The number of
people in receipt of
out of work benefits
is a contributory
delivered through
the use of the funds
provided by the
Council. These
indictors will be
reduced in
proportion to
reduction of funds.
These indicators
include: • Number of
people receiving
support (4,300) •
Value of income
generated
(£750,000) • Total
value of reduced
liability to debt
(£425,000) •
Number establishing
a debt strategy (85)
• Number advised
with housing issues
(770 ) • Number
provided with
consumer rights
issues (250) •
Number provided
with employment
rights issues (800) •
Number supported
with advice on
energy issues (600)
Option 1 reducing
WD Council grant by
25% (£87,000
reduction). Taking
into account other
funding WDCAB
receives we estimate
a reduction in
performance
indicators to be: •
Number of people
receiving support
(4,300) reduced to
3,639. • Value of
income generated
(£750,000) reduced
to £634,000 • Total
value of reduced
liability to debt
(£425,000) reduced
to £359,000 •

Page 42

factor to the level of
child poverty. In
West
Dunbartonshire
4.5% of the
population in the 16-
64 years group is in
receipt of out of
work benefits. This
is higher than the
average in Scotland
(3.2%) and Great
Britain (3.8%) and
represents 2,525
people. 18.4% of
households in West
Dunbartonshire are
in receipt of the
main benefits. This
compares
unfavourably with
the figure for
Scotland (13%) and
Great Britain (11%)..
In effect,
comparatively more
people in West
Dunbartonshire rely
on benefits for their
income. Maximising
their entitlement
will feature strongly
in our approach to
maximising income
Number establishing
a debt strategy (85)
reduced to 72 •
Number advised
with housing issues
(770 )reduced to
652 • Number
provided with
consumer rights
issues (250) reduced
to 212 • Number
provided with
employment rights
issues (800) reduced
to 677 • Number
supported with
advice on energy
issues (600) reduced
to 508 Option 2
reducing WD Council
grant by 50%
(£174,659
reduction). Taking
into account other
funding WDCAB
receives we estimate
a reduction in
performance
indicators to be: •
Number of people
receiving support
(4,300) reduced to
2,900. • Value of
income generated
(£750,000) reduced
to £519,000 • Total
value of reduced
liability to debt
(£425,000) reduced
to £290,000 •
Number establishing
a debt strategy (85)
reduced to 59 •
Number advised
with housing issues
(770 )reduced to
533 • Number
provided with
consumer rights
issues (250) reduced
to 173 • Number
provided with
employment rights

Page 43

issues (800) reduced
to 554 • Number
supported with
advice on energy
issues (600) reduced
to 416 Option 3
reducing WD Council
grant by 75%
(£261,853
reduction). Taking
into account other
funding WDCAB
receives we estimate
a reduction in
performance
indicators to be: •
Number of people
receiving support
(4,300) reduced to
2,300. • Value of
income generated
(£750,000) reduced
to £400,000 • Total
value of reduced
liability to debt
(£425,000) reduced
to £230,000 •
Number establishing
a debt strategy (85)
reduced to 46 •
Number advised
with housing issues
(770 )reduced to
415 • Number
provided with
consumer rights
issues (250) reduced
to 135 • Number
provided with
employment rights
issues (800) reduced
to 431 • Number
supported with
advice on energy
issues (600) reduced
to 323 Option 3
reducing WD Council
grant by 75%
(£314,223
reduction). Taking
into account other
funding WDCAB
receives we estimate

Page 44

a reduction in
performance
indicators to be: •
Number of people
receiving support
(4,300) reduced to
1,900. • Value of
income generated
(£750,000) reduced
to £335,000 • Total
value of reduced
liability to debt
(£425,000) reduced
to £190,000 •
Number establishing
a debt strategy (85)
reduced to 38 •
Number advised
with housing issues
(770 )reduced to
344 • Number
provided with
consumer rights
issues (250) reduced
to 112 • Number
provided with
employment rights
issues (800) reduced
to 358 • Number
supported with
advice on energy
issues (600) reduced
to 268 Note: The
figures provided are
estimates based on
WD Council funding
reduction while
other funds remain
in place. All options
will lead to a
reduction in the
number of people
from disadvantaged
communities and
families receiving
support. The 90%
reduction option
resulting in a 65%
reduction in the
support available
through CAB
services.
Disability Our child poverty Disabled people and Reduced provision

Page 45

report notes
disabled people as a
priority group
those living in a
household with a
disabled person are
more likely to be
income deprived
may affect efforts to
reduce poverty for
this group
Social & Economic
Impact
Reducing child
poverty is a focus for
the council
Groups noted above
may be especially
vulnerable, as well
as other with low
incomes
Reduced provision
may result in
reduced ability to
tackle economic and
financial inequality
Sex
Our child poverty
report notes
women/lone
parents groups as a
priority group
Women are more
likely to be income
deprived than men.
90% of single
parents.
Reduced provision
may affect efforts to
reduce poverty for
this group
Gender Reassign
Health
Human Rights
Human Rights Act;
For example Article
8 family life UNCRC
(Best practice)
The work of WD CAB
supports elements of
human rights
Reduced provision
may negatively
affect the fulfilment
of rights
Marriage & Civil
Partnership
Pregnancy &
Maternity
Race
Our child poverty
report notes people
from BME groups as
a priority group
People from BME
groups more likely
to me more income
deprived
Reduced provision
may affect efforts to
reduce poverty for
this group
Religion and Belief
Sexual Orientation
Actions
Policy has a negative impact on an equality group,but is still to be implemented, please
provide justification for this.
The Council has a substantial budget deficit and is seeking and assessing options that will contribute
to reducing the gap. Assessment of grant support to external service providers is a necessary part of
that process.
Will the impact of the policy be monitored and reported on an ongoing bases?
Working4U maintains a set of performance indicators for all funded projects that are reported to the
Council and COSLA (Improvement Service). The statistics will reflect changing funding levels.
Q7 What is you recommendation for this policy?
Modify
Please provide a meaningful summary of how you have reached the recommendation
EIA 579: The equality impact assessment provides an overview of the differing impacts of a range of
options from 25% to 90%. The choice of option will be based on the scale of budget gap and the
range of contributions from other sources.

Page 46

AssessmentNo 580 Owner sbrooks
Resource
Regeneration,
Environment
and Growth
Service/Establishment HE Budget
 
First Name Surname Job title
Head Officer Stephen Brooks Working4U Manager
(include job titles/organisation)
Members Peter Barry
 
(Please note: the word 'policy' is used as shorthand for stategy policy function
or financial decision)
Policy Title HE08e Assessment of impact - Y-sort-it
 
The aim, objective,purpose and intended out come of policy
The aim is to assess the impact on services by contributing to reduction of Council
budget deficit by reducing service costs in a range between 25% and 90%. Y-sortit
currently receives £156,124 to deliver services that complement existing services
provided by West Dunbartonshire Council (Working4U) youth teams.
 
 
Service/Partners/Stakeholders/service users involved in the development
and/or implementation of policy.
Senior staff at West Dunbartonshire Council and elected members.
Does the proposals involve the procurement of any goods or
services? Yes
If yes please confirm that you have contacted our procurement
services to discuss your requirements. No
SCREENING
You must indicate if there is any relevance to the four areas
Duty to eliminate discrimination (E), advance equal
opportunities (A) or foster good relations (F) No
Relevance to Human Rights (HR) No
Relevance to Health Impacts (H) No
Relevance to Social Economic Impacts (SE) Yes
Who will be affected by this policy?
Y Sort-It delivers a young person led service, providing opportunities for young people and inspiring
them to reach their full potential. This is a youth friendly social space for young people facilitating
access to youth group activities and learning opportunities. This includes a weekly programme of
support groups, group work sessions in the Y Sort-It Youth Centre and other relevant outreach
locations. The service will be open access and available to any young person aged 5–25 years and a
resident within West Dunbartonshire. However, to meet the varying needs of young people living in
West Dunbartonshire consideration will be given to those people who are harder to reach, to ensure
that they have equal opportunity of access. This will include specific provision for those that are the
following: • LGBT Youth; • Those at risk or vulnerable to anti-social behaviour or organised crime; •
Young Carers / Young Adult Carers; • Looked after Care Experienced young people; • Those at risk
or vulnerable to substance misuse.
Who will be/has been involved in the consultation process?
Please outline any particular need/barriers which equality groups may have in relation to
this policy list evidence you are using to support this and whether there is any negative
impact on particular groups.

Page 47

Needs Evidence Impact
Age
While the majority
of children and
young people in
West
Dunbartonshire are:
happy in their
homes; enjoy
friendship; and are
actively engaged in
sport, culture and
recreation; progress
at school; have good
health and self-
esteem; and are
civically engaged,
there are others who
are less well
connected. However,
this is not the case
for all young people
in West
Dunbartonshire
where some young
people living are
facing challenges
because of their
circumstances and
experience of
poverty and
disadvantage. Youth
Engagement
services, that
includes input from
Y-Sort-it will
contribute towards
addressing those
challenges within
West
Dunbartonshire
communities, with
specific emphasis
placed on
supporting those
that may be more
vulnerable to
disadvantage. In
order to do so there
is a need to engage
with young people
and develop services
that meet their
needs. This includes
In 2020, 15,484 of
the population
(88,340) were
children between
the age of 0 and 15
years. 12,433
children were
attending school: •
6,658 pupils in the
32 primary schools
in West
Dunbartonshire. •
5,548 pupils in the
five secondary
schools in West
Dunbartonshire. •
227 pupils in the
three special need
schools in West
Dunbartonshire. Of
these 3,549 are
considered to be
living in households
affected by poverty.
This represents
23.4% of the
population in the 0-
16 year’s age group.
This is 3%age points
higher than the
average in Scotland.
In 2021, there was
334 ‘looked after’
children. In addition,
statistics provided
by Skills
Development
Scotland show that
the proportion of
school leavers in a
positive destination
in West
Dunbartonshire
(91%) is lower than
the equivalent
proportion for our
neighbours in the
Greater Glasgow and
Clyde NHS (GGandC
NHS) area (95.8%)
and Scotland
(95.5%). Similarly
Y-sortit receives
£156,124 to deliver
services that
complement existing
services provided by
West
Dunbartonshire
Council
(Working4U) youth
teams. Y-sortit
receives funding
from other sources
and has reserve
funds which are
reported in the
organisations annual
accounts.
Nevertheless, the
options for reducing
grant funds in a
range between 25%
and 90% will have a
negative effect on
their ability to
deliver services.
25% reduction has a
value of £39,000.
This will have a low
impact and will
require some
consideration of the
priorities that
organisation’s focus
and activities
delivered on behalf
of the Council. 50%
reduction has a
value of £76,062.
This will have a low
to medium impact
and will require
consideration of
priorities and the
reduction of
activities delivered
on behalf of the
Council. 75%
reduction has a
value of £117,000.
This will have a
medium to high
impact and will

Page 48

the need for support
to remain active and
healthy; enjoying
economic
opportunity and
security and being
connected,
respected and able
to contribute to their
communities.
the participation
rate in West
Dunbartonshire
(90.8%) compares
unfavourably with
the GGandC NHS
area (92.4%) and
Scotland (92.2%).
Furthermore, 7.2%
of the population in
the 16- 25 years age
group are claiming
out of work benefits.
This compares
unfavourably with
Scotland, where the
figure is 4.6% and
Great Britain with a
figure 4.8%.
require
consideration of
priorities and a
significant reduction
in activity delivered
on behalf of the
Council. This will
include the
requirement for co-
ordination with
WDC and HSCP with
Working4U taking
on some of the
activities. 90%
reduction will have a
high impact and will
require a review of
activities, co-
ordination of
priorities and an
assessment to
identify which of the
activities could be
taken on by
Working4U and
youth alliance
partners.
Cross Cutting
There is a need to
recognise that young
people who access
youth services often
have compounded
barriers or
obstacles.
Scottish Health
Survey (2012/13)
http://www.gov.sco
t/Publications/2016
/09/2408 Carers
Trust Scotland
(2015) Time to be
Heard for Young
Adult Carers Scottish
Government (2015)
Scotland's Carers
Understanding the
impact on young
people in this
respect should be
understood in
reference to the
intersectionality of
challenges they face.
Disability
Social & Economic
Impact
West
Dunbartonshire has
one of the highest
proportion of young
carers by local
authority area.
Higher proportions
of young people
have caring
responsibilities in
areas of higher
deprivation and
lower income.
Research tells us
Scotland's 2011
Census data
Removal of funding
for an organisation
that provides
support to young
people may have an
adverse impact on
their economic
wellbeing
particularly if no
other supports are
available.

Page 49

that young carers
are more common in
families with
unemployed parents
or low incomes. This
is cross cutting with
other areas such as
LGBT and
homelessness
Sex
Gender Reassign
Creation of places
where LGBTQ+
groups can safely
socialise and be
open about their
sexual orientation
and gender identity.
LGBT young people
in particular are at a
higher risk of
increased
homelessness and
domestic abuse.
Stonewall Scotland's
report highlighted
that LGBT people are
vulnerable to and at
increased risk of
homelessness,
highlighting that
almost one in five
LGBT people (18%)
have experienced
homelessness at
some point in their
lives. A Report by
Scottish Alliance for
Children's Rights
notes LGBT children
and young people
may be significantly
disadvantaged in
accessing adequate
play, leisure and
culture
opportunities. This
is cross cutting with
sexual orientation
Removal of funding
for an organisation
that provides
support to young
LGBT people may
have an adverse
impact on their
wellbeing
particularly if no
other supports are
available. How
support for LGBT
young people is
delivered would
need to be assessed
to ensure it still
delivers maximum
positive impact.
Health
There are an
estimated 800,000
unpaid carers in
Scotland this
includes 30,000
young carers under
the age of 18.
Research
undertaken by
Carers Trust reports
that 45% of young
carers and young
adult carers aged 14-
25 surveyed stated
that they have or
have had mental
health problems.
Mental health and
Scottish Health
Survey (2012/13)
http://www.gov.sco
t/Publications/2016
/09/2408 Carers
Trust Scotland
(2015) Time to be
Heard for Young
Adult Carers Scottish
Government (2015)
Scotland's Carers
https://www.stone
wall.org.uk/experien
ces-lgbtq-children-
and-young-people
https://www.gov.sc
ot/binaries/content
/documents/govscot
Removal of funding
for an organisation
that provides
support to young
people including
young carers and
young LGBT people
may have an adverse
impact on their
wellbeing
particularly if no
other supports are
available. How
support for carers is
delivered would
need to be assessed
to ensure it still
delivers maximum

Page 50

wellbeing LGBTQ+
children and young
people experience
particularly high
rates of poor mental
health. More than
one in five LGB
young people and
more than two in
five trans young
people have
attempted to take
their own life. One in
three non-binary
young people and
nearly half of
disabled LGBT
young people have
tried to take their
own life. Health is
cross cutting with
other areas such as
sexual orientation
and gender
reassignment
/publications/statist
ics/2019/11/scottis
h-schools-
adolescent-lifestyle-
substance-use-
survey-salsus-
national-overview-
2018/documents/su
mmary-findings-
west-
dunbartonshire-
council/summary-
findings-west-
dunbartonshire-
council/govscot%3A
document/summary
-findings-west-
dunbartonshire-
council.pdf
positive impact.
Human Rights
Marriage & Civil
Partnership
Pregnancy &
Maternity
Race
Religion and Belief
Sexual Orientation
Creation of places
where LGBTQ+
groups can safely
socialise and be
open about their
sexual orientation
and gender identity.
LGBT young people
in particular are at a
higher risk of
increased
homelessness and
domestic abuse. This
is cross cutting with
gender
reassignment
Stonewall Scotland's
report highlighted
that LGBT people are
vulnerable to and at
increased risk of
homelessness,
highlighting that
almost one in five
LGBT people (18%)
have experienced
homelessness at
some point in their
lives. A Report by
Scottish Alliance for
Children's Rights
notes LGBT children
and young people
may be significantly
disadvantaged in
accessing adequate
play, leisure and
Removal of funding
for an organisation
that provides
support to young
LGBT people may
have an adverse
impact on their
wellbeing
particularly if no
other supports are
available. How
support for LGBT
young people is
delivered would
need to be assessed
to ensure it still
delivers maximum
positive impact. This
is cross cutting with
gender
reassignment

Page 51

culture
opportunities. This
is cross cutting with
gender
reassignment
Actions
Policy has a negative impact on an equality group,but is still to be implemented, please
provide justification for this.
The Council has a substantial budget deficit and is seeking and assessing options that will contribute
to reducing the gap. Assessment of grant support to external service providers is a necessary part of
that process.
Will the impact of the policy be monitored and reported on an ongoing bases?
Working4U will continue to deliver Youth services. The impact of the reduced input for Ysort it will
be monitored and reported on through the various lines of accountability for the Community
learning and Development plan
Q7 What is you recommendation for this policy?
Modify
Please provide a meaningful summary of how you have reached the recommendation
EIA 580: The equality impact assessment provides an overview of the differing impacts of a range of
options from 25% to 90%. The choice of option will be based on the scale of budget gap and the
range of contributions to the budget gap from other sources.

Page 52

AssessmentNo 588 Owner cenglish
Resource
Regeneration,
Environment
and Growth
Service/Establishment HE Budget
 
First Name Surname Job title
Head Officer Clare English Communities Manager
(include job titles/organisation)
Members Clare English - Communities Manager Stephen Brooks - W4U Manager
 
(Please note: the word 'policy' is used as shorthand for stategy policy function
or financial decision)
Policy Title HE04bc Communities Team reduced by 50% or Restructure W4U YL CT and CPP
Support
 
The aim, objective,purpose and intended out come of policy
Reduction in costs related to Communities Team staffing. The assessment reviews
the comparative impact of reducing the Communities Team by 50% and
restructuring the team to merge with Working4U Youth learning and include the
CPP Support function.
 
 
Service/Partners/Stakeholders/service users involved in the development
and/or implementation of policy.
Communities, Working4U and associated HR and Business Partners
Does the proposals involve the procurement of any goods or
services? Yes
If yes please confirm that you have contacted our
procurement services to discuss your requirements. No
SCREENING
You must indicate if there is any relevance to the four areas
Duty to eliminate discrimination (E), advance equal
opportunities (A) or foster good relations (F) Yes
Relevance to Human Rights (HR) Yes
Relevance to Health Impacts (H) Yes
Relevance to Social Economic Impacts (SE) Yes
Who will be affected by this policy?
Communities Team – 21 Staff; W4U Youth Learning Team – 19 staff; dependant on savings option
selected. Communities across West Dunbartonshire.
Who will be/has been involved in the consultation process?
The equalities impact assessment has been produced as part of the process for assessing the
potential savings options being explored by the Council. The consultation has included elected
members and senior council officials
Please outline any particular need/barriers which equality groups may have in relation to
this policy list evidence you are using to support this and whether there is any negative
impact on particular groups.
 
Needs Evidence Impact
Age
CLD services are
targeted at children,
young people and
adults who are
experiencing
27.4% of children
across West
Dunbartonshire are
living with poverty.
Children born into
50% reduction -
reduction in staff
therefore potential
negative impact on
older members of

Page 53

disadvantage
accessing services
and often have
limited resources.
This includes lone
parents, disengaged
young people, and
people with limited
qualifications. pre-
pandemic WD had
higher levels of
youth
unemployment than
Scotland.
poverty are more
likely to experience
mental health
problems. The
evidence from the
pandemic economic
impacts to date
shows that young
people (aged 16-24
years) have been
disproportionately
affected. All Age UK
have noted that
there has not been
as big an upsurge in
the use of digital
technology among
older people since
2020 as is assumed
by some.
staff 50% reduction -
Community impact
negative, reduction
in support for age
focused groups and
interventions
Restructure Staff
impact - reduction in
staff therefore
potential negative
impact on older
members of staff
Restructure
Community impact -
limited or no impact
Cross Cutting
Intersectionality and
multiple
discrimination need
to be taken into
account. Need to
progress Councils
equality outcomes
and aspirations.
Need to support
Council BSL action
plan.
WD has higher than
Scottish and UK
levels of deprivation
and child poverty
which has multiple
negative outcomes
for people living in
poverty and with
limited access to
CLD services. Living
in poverty is a
significant
determinant of both
physical and mental
health. Many of the
groups who were
already struggling
with poverty have
borne the brunt of
the pandemic and
the cost of living
crisis and things will
get more
challenging.
50% reduction - staff
impact 50%
reduction -
Community impact
Restructure Staff
impact -Restructure
Community impact -
Positive impact
anticipated as a
holistic approach to
support service
users is fundamental
to the 3 Year Plan -
staff will continue to
access training and
support to
understand the
complex needs of
service users and
consultation with
service users will
continue to influence
service design. We
will ensure
appropriate training
and support for staff
The service will
ensure best
communications
practice informed by
the Council's
Communicating
Effectively Guidance.

Page 54

Disability
We have legal duty
to ensure that
services are
accessible to
disabled people. This
duty is anticipatory.
CLD services are
open to all however
a particular risk
group are those with
disabilities or long
term health issues.
Risk of poverty is
much higher for
disabled people.
Older people are
more likely to be
disabled than
younger people, and
only 17% of people
who eventually have
impairment are born
with this. WDC is
committed to
ensuring BSL users
are supported to
access services, so
that they can
improve their
quality of life. The
Councils BSL Action
Plan is relevant in
terms of service
accessibility.
Disabled people
more likely to be in
poverty. WD has a
higher percentage of
disabled people than
Scotland on this
measure. 23% of
those who live in a
household with a
disabled household
member live in
poverty. Disabled
people are more
reliant on public
transport
50% reduction - staff
impact potential
negative impact on
staff with a disability
50% reduction -
Community impact
negative, reduction
in support for
disability focused
groups and
interventions
Restructure Staff
impact - potential
negative impact on
staff with a disability
Restructure
Community impact -
limited or no impact
Social & Economic
Impact
Many economically
disadvantaged
people in WD have
poorer health
outcomes, have
lower levels of
qualifications and
fewer qualifications
at all levels
compared to
Scotland, are more
likely to be digitally
excluded. Poverty
impacts peoples
ability to feed,
clothe, heat their
homes for
themselves and their
families.
OVID has had a
greater negative
impact on already
disadvantaged
groups. Cost of living
crisis is going to
have a major impact
on people already
living in poverty. It
will push more
people into poverty
as fuel costs, food
bills increase.
50% reduction -
negative staff impact
50% reduction -
Community impact,
negative - reduced
support to
Communities and
groups who require
or provide support
to residents facing
economic hardship,
this negative impact
is intensified with
the cost of living
crisis and goes
against the councils
anti poverty efforts
Restructure Staff
impact - negative

Page 55

impact Restructure
Community impact ,
limited or no impact.
Work will continue
through the
Community
Empowerment
Strategy priority
projects and the
focus throughout on
the Cost of Living
Crisis - CLD services
are targeted at
individuals and
communities most in
need of social,
personal
development
activities so the
impact should be
positive for this
group. Youth
Empowerment and
participation
enables young
people to influence
decision making in
WD. CLD
practitioners are
always investigating
ways to remove
barriers to
participation
Sex
Women face
multiple
discrimination,
including disabled
women, women
from Black and
Ethnic Minority
(BME) communities,
refugee and asylum
seekers, lesbian,
bisexual and Trans
(LGBT+) women,
and older women. In
the preCOVID-19
labour market,
women were
unequal in pay,
participation and
progression due to
drivers including
The gap between
women’s and men’s
earning is bigger in
WD than for
Scotland. WD
domestic violence
rates are higher than
Scotland.
50% reduction - staff
impact reduction in
staff therefore
potential negative
impact on female
members of staff
50% reduction -
Community impact
negative, reduced
support to
discrimination
focused groups and
interventions
Restructure Staff
impact -reduction in
staff therefore
potential negative
impact on female
members of staff
Restructure

Page 56

occupational
segregation, job
valuation,
discrimination, and
time available to
work. 38% of single
women with
children are living in
poverty. In 2019-20
4 out of 5 victims of
domestic abuse were
female. Males are 2.6
x more likely to die
by suicide in
Scotland than
females. Gender-
based violence is
experienced
unequally, with 17%
of women and 7% of
men having
experienced the use
of force from a
partner or ex-
partner at some
point in their lives.
Community impact -
no or limited impact
anticipated
continuation with 3
Year Plan links with
Child poverty plan
for WDC and actions
align with CP
indicators. Teams
adhere to Child
Protection policies
and reporting within
WDC. Staff are fully
trained on guidance
and remain up to
date with any
changes.
Gender Reassign
Services need to be
inclusive and
accessible. Services
ensure
confidentiality of
information for all
users. People who
identify as
LGBTQIA+ have
higher rates of
common mental
health problems and
lower wellbeing
than heterosexual
people.
LGBTQIA+ people
more likely to be
income deprived.
Going through a
gender
reassignment means
legally changing
almost every
recorded document
that has your birth
name and given
gender on it. This
can include things
like bank details.
50% reduction - staff
impact r no impact
50% reduction -
Community impact
negative, reduction
in support for
gender
reassignment
focused groups and
interventions
Restructure Staff
impact - no impact
Restructure
Community impact -
We will continue to
ensure that our
workers have
appropriate
knowledge and
expertise to support
service users.
limited or no impact
Health
In the most affluent
areas of Scotland,
men experience 23.8
more years of good
health and women
WD is an area of
substantial
deprivation and
health outcomes for
WD compared to
50% reduction - no
staff impact at this
point 50% reduction
- Community impact
negative, reduction

Page 57

experience 22.6
more years
compared to the
most deprived areas.
The life expectancy
of people with
learning disabilities
is substantially
shorter than the
Scottish average.
Scotland are a
concern. Longer
term effects of
COVID 19 are
unknown. Poverty
has huge impacts on
health inequalities.
in support and
services for health
focused groups and
interventions,
reduced
partnershipp
working with CPP
colleagues, Public
Health, shaping
Places for Wellbeing
project and HSCP
Community
Empowerment
involvement.
Restructure Staff
impact - not st this
point Restructure
Community impact -
No Or limited impact
with continuation of
Positive impact
anticipated through
the CLD 3 year plan
outlines engagement
services to ensure
accessibility to
service users with
health and
disabilities including
engagement with
specialist services-
outreach activity to
those who require it.
WD residents have
reported that
participating in CLD
activity has
impacted positively
on their health and
wellbeing.
Human Rights
WDC needs to up
hold human rights.
The Council is a duty
bearer. UNCRC -
young peoples
rights.
Scottish Human
rights Commission
Human Rights
Report Card 2022
UNCRC - CLD staff
are part of the
working group for
WDC.
50% reduction - no
staff impact 50%
reduction -
Community impact
negative, reduction
in support and
interventions for all
groups Restructure
no Staff impact -
Restructure
Community impact -
No or limited impact
and continued

Page 58

Positive impact for
people in West
Dunbartonshire
including adults,
young people and
children. The 3 year
plan will deliver CLD
services in WD
where anyone is able
to obtain the
information and
advice and support
they need, when
they need it and
obtain access in the
way they need it.
Marriage & Civil
Partnership N/A N/A N/A
Pregnancy &
Maternity
Poverty is both a
cause and a
consequence of teen
pregnancy. More
than 60% of young,
unmarried mothers
live in households
that qualify as being
in poverty.
Young lone parents
are more likely to be
income deprived.
vittana.org/teen
pregnancy- and
poverty
50% reduction - no
staff impact at this
point 50% reduction
- Community impact
negative, reduction
in support for
parenting or lone
parent focused
groups and
interventions
Restructure Staff
impact - no impact at
this time
Restructure
Community impact -
no impact at this
time.
Race
Risk of poverty is
much higher for
black minority
ethnic people
compared to white
people. WDC has
comprehensive
translation and
interpreter services
which service users
and providers can
access as required.
Those from minority
ethnic groups are
more likely to live in
deprived areas and
in poverty. People
from Black groups
are twice as likely to
be unemployed as
people from white
communities. Child
poverty is higher in
BME groups. There
is increasing ethnic
diversity in WD.
50% reduction - no
staff impact 50%
reduction -
Community impact
negative reduction
in support for ethnic
minority groups
groups and
interventions
Restructure Staff
impact - no impact
Restructure
Community impact -
limited or no impact
Religion and Belief
Services need to be
inclusive and
accessible. Services
ensure
There is increasing
religious diversity in
West
Dunbartonshire.
50% reduction - no
staff impact at this
point 50% reduction
- Community impact

Page 59

confidentiality of
information for all
users.
negative, reduction
in support and
interventions for
religious groups
Restructure Staff
impact - no impact
Restructure
Community impact -
No Or limited
impact.We will
continue to ensure
that our workers
have appropriate
knowledge and
expertise and
cultural competence.
CLD teams have well
established links
with national
organisations who
have resources and
training on a range
of topics including
sectarianism, Nil by
Mouth etc.
Sexual Orientation
Services need to be
inclusive and
accessible. Services
ensure
confidentiality of
information for all
users
LGBTQIA+ people
are likely to earn
less than
heterosexual people
and are more likely
to live in deprived
areas.
50% reduction - staff
impact 50%
reduction -
Community impact
negative, reduction
in support and
interventions for
LGBTQIA+ groups
Restructure Staff
impact -Restructure
Community impact -
No or limited impact.
We will continue to
ensure that our
workers have
appropriate
knowledge and
expertise. There is
currently a
LGBTQIA+ group for
young people in WD
supported by the
Youth Learning
Team.
Actions
Policy has a negative impact on an equality group,but is still to be implemented, please
provide justification for this.

Page 60

The comparison of options has been produced as a direct result of the need to identify potential
savings that will contribute to the Council budget deficit. There will be a negative impact in
applying both reductions: a 50% reduction across the Communities team or a restructure for the
Communities Team with W4U Youth learning and incorporation of Community Planning support.
We have used a scale from no impact to severe impact to illustrate the impact and as a basis for
decision making. • no impact; • slight (low impact), • moderate (between no impact and severe); •
serious (not the worst case, but extremely challenging); and • severe (worst case with significant
negative impact). A 50% reduction would be severe, leaving the Communities team unable to
operate effectively and unable to meet key strategic and operational priorities. The Team is
currently under-resourced to address the significant challenges our communities face. This
budget reduction would stop: most progress; impact; and reach of the Council’s Community
Empowerment ambitions; outlined in the Community Empowerment Strategy and associated
action plan which have been developed in response to the Community Empowerment (Scotland)
Act 2015. The impact of this option would be particularly pronounced given the cost of living
crisis and the critical role community development will play in identifying and supporting local
groups and local solutions. Significantly, this will result in less resilient communities which in turn
will lead to greater demands on scarce council resources. Three main areas affected: • Community
resilience; • Anti-poverty; • Community safety The option to restructure the Communities team
and Working4U Youth Learning Team will be moderate, in relation to staff impact from resulting
job losses. The positive side being the creation of a combined and more efficient operating model,
ensures the new team continues to meet key strategic, operational and emerging priorities. It will
also enable the continuation of the community planning function (currently within the CCF
service area). The proposed restructure will have positive impacts that include reduce overall
costs of the service but strengthen ability to lever external funding. This would reduce the
pressure on council services and council budgets more widely and it a more strategic option than
simply reducing the budget of the team with all the negative impacts that brings. A restructure
would positively impact: • The Council’s Community Empowerment ambitions, ensuring that
Youth Empowerment and continuing engagement and participation is a key factor of the
Community Empowerment Strategy and associated action plan which have been developed in
response to the Community Empowerment (Scotland) Act 2015. • UK Shared prosperity Projects
with the overarching aim of building pride in place and increasing life chances would benefit
greatly from a Youth perspective. Projects will support interventions to; Reduce Anti-Social
Behaviour; Reduce Unlawful Fire raising; Focus on our estate (social housing) work and wider
community input e.g. community clean up initiatives; Improve mental health and wellbeing;
Increase community engagement. • Supporting Communities throughout the cost of living crisis
and the critical role community development will play in identifying and supporting local groups
and local solutions. An immediate example being the Food Insecurity funding, group management
and the development of a Food Pantry Network, aligning with the council’s anti-poverty efforts. •
Community safety with a collaborative approach between the Youth Outreach team and the public
space CCTV team. A Communities and Police Scotland partnership would have additional
intelligence with regard to Youth hotspots and behaviours but more importantly reduce police
intervention and introduce young people to resources and services that can lead to positive life
outcomes such as education enrolment, increased work experience, employment, and wider
attainment. • Providing a focus for partnership working at neighbourhood level, through
Community Planning that targets specific local circumstances. This will focus on where partners'
collective efforts and resources can add the most value to their local communities, with particular
emphasis on reducing inequality
Will the impact of the policy be monitored and reported on an ongoing bases?
This will depend on the decisions regarding the savings option that the Council makes. If the
decision is to reduce the Communities Team by 50% there will be a significant negative impact on
Communities across West Dunbartonshire, this will be monitored through Community
consultation and reported annually. If the restructure option is taken there will be no requirement
to monitor the impact

Page 61

Q7 What is you recommendation for this policy?
Intoduce
Please provide a meaningful summary of how you have reached the recommendation
EIA 588 details potential impacts of the options: In summary, Option 1 will result in a 50%
reduction in staffing and a potential 70% reduction in services delivered. This will have a severe
equalities impact on West Dunbartonshire residents and their Communities. It will also have a
negative impact on staff within the Communities and Youth Learning teams who are ineligible for
voluntary severance or early retirement. Option 2 - The restructure of the Communities Team;
Youth Learning and Community Planning Support will result in a 27.5% reduction in staffing
across two teams, having a negative impact ( though less severe than Option 1) for those staff
ineligible for the early retirement or voluntary severance option. For West Dunbartonshire
residents and their Communities there will be no or limited impact. There will be a positive
equalities impact from the alignment continuation and development of services across both the
Communities and Youth Learning portfolios. The alignment in conjunction with the Community
Planning Support function will result in a more efficient operating model. There will be no or
limited impact on Service delivery and the capacity to apply for and deliver on externally funded
projects and ensure social return on investment. The recommended budget option is therefore
Option 2 - restructure of the Communities Team, Youth Learning and the community Planning
Support Function.

Page 62

AssessmentNo 592 Owner smclelland
Resource
Regeneration,
Environment
and Growth
Service/Establishment HE Budget
 
First Name Surname Job title
Head Officer Nicola Pettigrew Manager
(include job titles/organisation)
Members Nicola Pettigrew Tracy Crichton
 
(Please note: the word 'policy' is used as shorthand for stategy policy function
or financial decision)
Policy Title HE 11 - Reduction to Tenant Liaison Service (TLO)
 
The aim, objective,purpose and intended out come of policy
As part of current savings options (23/24) for above service the objective and
purpose of this EIA is to outline impact to residents, stakeholders and staff. The TLO
service support all tenants across West Dunbartonshire which include all protected
groups.
 
 
Service/Partners/Stakeholders/service users involved in the development
and/or implementation of policy.
Staff Tenants Residents Local TRA groups Elected Members Housing West
Dunbartonshire Equality Forum
Does the proposals involve the procurement of any goods or
services? Yes
If yes please confirm that you have contacted our procurement
services to discuss your requirements. No
SCREENING
You must indicate if there is any relevance to the four areas
Duty to eliminate discrimination (E), advance equal
opportunities (A) or foster good relations (F) Yes
Relevance to Human Rights (HR) Yes
Relevance to Health Impacts (H) Yes
Relevance to Social Economic Impacts (SE) Yes
Who will be affected by this policy?
Staff tenants Residents Police Scotland local TRA groups Community Councils Elected Members
SFRS Safe and Stronger DIG ASB tasking Group Fire Reduction Group ASBOF ASBLEF WDTRO
Environmental Health Greenspace Housing
Who will be/has been involved in the consultation process?
There has been no consultation carried out as yet as no decision has been made however
consultation would include Staff , TUs and all stakeholders affected.
Please outline any particular need/barriers which equality groups may have in relation to
this policy list evidence you are using to support this and whether there is any negative
impact on particular groups.
 
Needs Evidence Impact
Age
Older people are
often affected by
challenging tenants
or the perception of.
This can be true of
A Fairer Scotland for
Older People:
Framework for
Action. Older people
want: "Opportunities
Face to face contact
with tenants
residents within this
age group will be
reduced.

Page 63

all age group
however more so in
the older group/s.
Physical and
meaningful
Engagement will be
accessed by all
regarding
challenging tenants
and the proposed
reduction to the
service by two
officers will remove
a high degree of
service to the age
group delivered by
TLO
to remain actively
engaged with, and
involved in, their
communities" this
reduction could see
significant unwanted
engagement at TRA,
face to face support
for issues and
remove physical
response to this age
group
Cross Cutting
Participation across
all protected groups
is an opportunity to
build community
cohesion
People can
simultaneous be
members of more
than one
disadvantaged
group, which can
multiply negative
outcomes
Reduction in
capacity within the
service will mean
there is less
opportunity to
engage with
communities and
build on community
safety and cohesion.
Disability
Evidence suggests
disabled people are
more likely to be
socially isolated, and
less likely to be
involved in
community life than
non disabled people.
There will be very
limited access to this
group with
reduction as the
proposal to reduce
this service by two
officers will impact
significantly
This reduction will
remove response
and actions to this
group moving them
closer to social
isolation. due to
disability, are
remaining indoors
and more likely to be
isolated. Local
feedback suggests
some success during
lockdown, using
digital methods and
also phone calls, but
this will not be good
for everyone
without physical
response by TLO
service
This reduction will
remove response
and actions to this
group moving them
closer to social
isolation.
Social & Economic
Impact
WDC has a duty to
consider the Fairer
Scotland Duty.
Involved, organised
and empowered
communities have
greater economic
and social strength.
TLO service feed
into this by working
The economic
impact of any
reduction to TLO
services is yet to be
fully realised in WDC
Communities. Our
work may need to

Page 64

to make our
communities safer.
focus much more on
poverty and
economic recovery
and the cost of living
crisis to come, there
is an expectation
that levels of
crime/ASB and
challenging
behaviours will
increase.
Sex
TLO services
currently engage in
community activities
which varies across
age and sex.
Impact to
engagement due to
reduction of staff.
Women are more
likely to suffer
domestic abuse and
Gender based
violence than men.
TLO and ASB service
jointly deliver NHDA
and the proposed
reduction will see
limited response to
this group.
Women are often
more visible and
available to engage
with our Team in a
face to face informal
environment. This
proposed reduction
will remove
engagement
platforms that would
normally ensure face
to face contact.
Gender Reassign
Those under going
or who have
undergone gender
reassignment can be
particularly
excluded from social
and civil society, it is
important that
people have an
opportunity to
participate in their
community and give
their opinion on
things that might
effect them. TLO
service helps
support this area via
our tenant referral
system
Evidence suggest
that trans people can
be more socially
isolated and more at
risk of
discrimination. This
reduction will
further isolate this
group in terms of
response and
physical support.
Evidence suggest
that trans people can
be more socially
isolated and more at
risk of
discrimination. This
reduction will
further isolate this
group in terms of
response and
physical support.
Health
The WDC strategic
plan has a focus on
health and wellbeing
Our physical and
social environment
is the framework in
which our lives take
place and,
depending on
circumstances, it can
provide us with
opportunities or
Reduction in
capacity may leave
less time to address
health and wellbeing
issues.

Page 65

limit our potential
(Scottish National
Performance
Framework). this
reduction will
impact significantly
on responding to
challenging tenants
within our
communities.
Human Rights
Relevant under core
civil rights, such as
the right to respect
for private and
family life (Article 8
of the Convention).
There is evidence
there is low
awareness of human
rights. There is an
increased focus the
Scottish Government
on giving Human
Rights a more
central place
Although not
directly affecting HR,
Considering the
service from a
Human Rights
perspective can help
inform inclusive
practice however
due to reduction in
staffing this would
adversely impact on
our verbal guidance
and physical
response to all cases.
Marriage & Civil
Partnership
This area cross cuts
with sex, and sexual
orientation
This area cross cuts
with sex, and sexual
orientation
This area cross cuts
with sex, and sexual
orientation. Given
the reduction there
will be no support or
physical response to
this group. Given the
reduction there will
be limited support to
this group
Pregnancy &
Maternity
This area cross cuts
with sex, and sexual
orientation
This area cross cuts
with sex, and sexual
orientation
This area cross cuts
with sex, and sexual
orientation. Given
the reduction there
will be no support or
physical response to
this group
Race
The TLO service
team core function is
to respond and
address challenging
tenants from a
housing
environment and for
all protected groups.
People from BME
groups are much
more likely to be the
subject of racist hate
incidents and crimes
Evidence from
Scottish Social
Attitudes surveys
and other sources
suggests that people
who have contact
with people from
This reduction will
remove reporting
platforms and
limited response
from TLO service to
concerns with the
reduction of physical
engagement.

Page 66

other groups are less
likely to hold
negative views on
those groups.
Religion and Belief
TLO services have
always respected
events and activities
and would seek to
avoid common times
of worship
Event timing and
venue can affect
peoples ability to
take part, with the
reduction to two
officers this now
might not be
achievable due to
demand and loss of
resources.
Event timing and
venue can affect
peoples ability to
take part, with the
reduction to two
officers this now
might not be
achievable due to
demand and loss of
resources. There is
also the aspect of
restricted to no
response with lower
staffing to this
group.
Sexual Orientation
Services need to be
accessible including ,
those aiming to
support
participation and
empowerment
LGBT are more likely
to be socially
excluded and suffer
from hate crime.
Whilst we will
ensure that we will
design our
engagement to be
inclusive, we will
face significant
reduction to physical
and verbal
engagement with
this group with the
proposed reduction
of staff.
Actions
Policy has a negative impact on an equality group,but is still to be implemented, please
provide justification for this.
There is high potential for some equality groups to be less frequently or meaningfully involved with
the TLO service due to this reduction. Face to Face engagement with subject citizen's at door step, in
community meetings will be fewer to none. The service will be greatly reduced and may only be
able to offer nothing short of telephony support should these proposals be implemented. Moving to
a phone based service, it is vital to have measures in place to allow access, e.g. an process to ensure
that non English speakers can get through with Language Line support for calls. Phone based
services may present more of a barrier to BSL users, and this would need to be mitigated. Part of
these measures would be directed communication to people generally and certain groups
particularly about changes/access in to the service. As noted systems to mitigate would need to be
in place supported by staff training.
Will the impact of the policy be monitored and reported on an ongoing bases?
Yes. The policy will be monitored in line with decision on services.
Q7 What is you recommendation for this policy?
Don't Introduce
Please provide a meaningful summary of how you have reached the recommendation
EIA 592 -HE01 (A) details potential negative impacts of this proposed service reduction, and
necessary mitigation. The TLO service support all tenants across West Dunbartonshire which

Page 67

include all protected groups. These groups and membership is made up of people from equalities
groups; most notably disabled people, older people and women. The suggested reductions to service
will have a negative impact of a range of protected groups and remove physical response and
support to our most socially challenged residents in terms of intense case management. Option A -
The reduction from 4 staff members to 2 will have an significant negative impact on our
communities and protected groups. The impact to affected staff members would be significant both
from the employment and financial loss in a time where disposable income is non existent. Further
to this, the knowledge and skill of the affected staff is irreplaceable and our partner agencies can't
absorb this/their skilled work, again this will affect all protected groups and our 90k+ to who we
serve.

Page 68

AssessmentNo 612 Owner LPENNYCOOK
Resource Transformation Service/Establishment Budget Ed
 
First Name Surname Job title
Head Officer Kathy Morrison Senior Education Officer
(include job titles/organisation)
Members
Laura Mason - Chief Education Officer Julie McGrogan - Senior Education
Officer Andrew Brown - Senior Education Officer Claire Cusick - Senior
Education Officer Ellen Moran - Principal Educational Psychologist
 
(Please note: the word 'policy' is used as shorthand for stategy policy
function or financial decision)
Policy Title EDU_17 Senior Early Learning and Childcare Officers (SELCO) Posts
 
The aim, objective,purpose and intended out come of policy
The deletion of 6 FTE Early Learning and Childcare Officer (ELCO)
positions at ELC with a Senior Early Learning and Childcare Officer
(SELCO) in post. The role of the SELCO would require to be reviewed - the
SELCO will be counted in the ELC ratio of adults to children i.e. in place of 6
FTE ELCO positions. 6.5 FTE is within ELC budget. Brucehill SELCO (0.5
FTE) retired in August 2022. The ELC does not meet the threshold of 80
children for this post which is currently a saving. Staff teams at ELCs
impacted would continue to be supported by the leadership team which
includes the Senior position. The Senior position would remain as part of
the route to promotion in our ELC leadership structure.
 
 
Service/Partners/Stakeholders/service users involved in the
development and/or implementation of policy.
Consultation with ELC leaders to ensure that they deploy staff
appropriately and provide support for SELCO to carry out tasks related to
remit. Consultation with HTs, HR, TUs and staff regarding alternative
employment for ELCOs impacted by the changing role of the SELCO.
Does the proposals involve the procurement of any goods or
services? No
If yes please confirm that you have contacted our
procurement services to discuss your requirements. Yes
SCREENING
You must indicate if there is any relevance to the four areas
Duty to eliminate discrimination (E), advance equal
opportunities (A) or foster good relations (F) Yes
Relevance to Human Rights (HR) Yes
Relevance to Health Impacts (H) Yes
Relevance to Social Economic Impacts (SE) Yes
Who will be affected by this policy?
Early Learning and Childcare Officers (ELCO's) impacted by the changing role of the Senior
Early Learning and Childcare Officer (SELCO).
Who will be/has been involved in the consultation process?
Consultation with ELC leaders to ensure that they deploy staff appropriately and provide
support for SELCO to carry out tasks related to remit. Consultation with HTs, HR, TUs and
staff regarding alternative employment for ELCOs impacted by the changing role of the
SELCO. Use the Switch policy to support staff.

Page 69

Please outline any particular need/barriers which equality groups may have in
relation to this policy list evidence you are using to support this and whether there is
any negative impact on particular groups.
 
Needs Evidence Impact
Age
Cross Cutting
The Council needs to
be aware of how
factors can interact
Disability
The Council had a
duty to make its
services accessible
to disabled people,
including pupils.
This is an
anticipatory duty.
We must seek to
mitigate any
negative impacts.
Families including
families with
children that have
one or more
disabled people in
them are more likely
to be income
deprived
Reduction may
negatively impact on
disabled pupils and
their families.
Social & Economic
Impact
The council is
committed to
examining how
these factors
interact.
The numbers of
children with
additional support
needs and the
complexity of their
needs has increased
at ELC. Some
children are
adversely impacted
by poverty. The
nature of support
required for children
has intensified and
requires more
continuous and long
term interventions.
The most effective
supports are based
on those supported
by significant
relationships with a
key adult.
Employment:
Positive Impact
Route to promotion
at ELC remains in
place. The SELCOs
time will be used
differently but this
will make best use of
the time of other
leaders. Negative
Impact 6 FTE ELCO
could be redeployed.
Service users:
Sex Need to assess
differential impacts.
There are more
female than male
learning assistants.
Single parent
households are more
likely to be income
deprived, 90% of
these are headed my
women
Employment:
Women are more
likely to be
negatively impacted
by the reduction in
posts. Service users:
Women who held
single households
more likely to be
negatively affected
Gender Reassign
Health
Human Rights UNCRC The numbers Research has been Positive Impact

Page 70

of children with
additional support
needs and the
complexity of their
needs has increased
at ELC. Some
children are
adversely impacted
by poverty. The
nature of support
required for children
has intensified and
requires more
continuous and long
term interventions.
The most effective
supports are based
on those supported
by significant
relationships with a
key adult.
carried out in
consultation with
the following:
GIRFEC Children and
Young People
(Scotland) Act 2014
Recommendations
United Nations
Rights of The Child
Article 3 Best
Interests of the Child
Route to promotion
at ELC remains in
place. The SELCOs
time will be used
differently but this
will make best use of
the time of other
leaders. Negative
Impact 6 FTE ELCO
could be redeployed.
Marriage & Civil
Partnership
Pregnancy &
Maternity
Race
BME families are a
priority group in
terms of reducing
child poverty.
Families and
children from BME
groups are more
likely to be income
deprived.
Reduction may
negatively impact on
more on BME pupils
their families.
Religion and Belief
Sexual Orientation
Actions
Policy has a negative impact on an equality group,but is still to be implemented,
please provide justification for this.
As above.
Will the impact of the policy be monitored and reported on an ongoing bases?
We will monitor impact by consulting staff involved. HR monitoring of the demographic of
staff potentially affected. Monitoring will be carried out on a termly basis.
Q7 What is you recommendation for this policy?
Don't Introduce
Please provide a meaningful summary of how you have reached the
recommendation
EIA 612: There may be a negative effect on some groups including disabled children and
their families. Women are more likely to be negatively affected by reductions due to the
gender balance of the staff team, though the promotion structure will remain in place, and
there may be alternative post in the structure. Staff teams at ELCs impacted would continue
to be supported by the leadership team which includes the Senior position. The Senior
position would remain as part of the route to promotion in our ELC leadership structure.

Page 71

AssessmentNo 619 Owner smclelland
Resource
Regeneration,
Environment
and Growth
Service/Establishment HE Budget
 
First Name Surname Job title
Head Officer Nicola Pettigrew Manager Housing Operations
(include job titles/organisation)
Members Scott Mclelland - ASB Coordinator
 
(Please note: the word 'policy' is used as shorthand for stategy policy function
or financial decision)
Policy Title HE01 - Reduction to ASB team Option 3
 
The aim, objective,purpose and intended out come of policy
Option 3 – Under this option, we would reduce the current budget required under
General Service and increase HRA contribution to fund the service based on a shift
in complainer/perpetrator tenure using the service. The service would continue to
operate as it currently does with no negative impact on our communities or
employees.
 
 
Service/Partners/Stakeholders/service users involved in the development
and/or implementation of policy.
Housing Operations/WDTRO
Does the proposals involve the procurement of any goods or
services? No
If yes please confirm that you have contacted our
procurement services to discuss your requirements. No
SCREENING
You must indicate if there is any relevance to the four areas
Duty to eliminate discrimination (E), advance equal
opportunities (A) or foster good relations (F) No
Relevance to Human Rights (HR) No
Relevance to Health Impacts (H) No
Relevance to Social Economic Impacts (SE) No
Who will be affected by this policy?
Who will be/has been involved in the consultation process?
Please outline any particular need/barriers which equality groups may have in relation to
this policy list evidence you are using to support this and whether there is any negative
impact on particular groups.
 
Needs Evidence Impact
Age
Cross Cutting
Disability
Social & Economic
Impact
Sex
Gender Reassign

Page 72

Health
Human Rights
Marriage & Civil
Partnership
Pregnancy &
Maternity
Race
Religion and Belief
Sexual Orientation
Actions
Policy has a negative impact on an equality group,but is still to be implemented, please
provide justification for this.
Will the impact of the policy be monitored and reported on an ongoing bases?
Q7 What is you recommendation for this policy?
Intoduce
Please provide a meaningful summary of how you have reached the recommendation
EIA 619, We are reducing cost of service from general funds and absorbing in HRA no impact on
service.

Page 73

AssessmentNo 622 Owner andbrown
Resource Transformation Service/Establishment Budget Ed
 
First Name Surname Job title
Head Officer Laura Mason Chief Education Officer
(include job titles/organisation)
Members
Andrew Brown - Senior Education Officer Julie McGrogan - Senior Education
Officer Kathy Morrison - Senior Education Officer Claire Cusick - Senior
Education Officer Ellen Moran - Principal Educational Psychologist
 
(Please note: the word 'policy' is used as shorthand for stategy policy
function or financial decision)
Policy Title Savings Option EDU16 - 4 day week
 
The aim, objective,purpose and intended out come of policy
This proposal would see our schools meet their statutory provision of learning
and teaching time across a 4 day week instead of the existing 5 days. This
would result in: • energy savings in the running of our buildings on the 5th day,
• a reduction of transportation costs, as children would only need transported
on 4 days instead of 5 • a reduction in the cleaning, facilities management and
catering costs.
 
 
Service/Partners/Stakeholders/service users involved in the
development and/or implementation of policy.
Consultation with other Council services who are currently involved in the
provision of this service as there may be an impact on staffing within other
departments. Consultation with HR, HTs, TU’s to advise of possible changes.
Does the proposals involve the procurement of any goods or
services? Yes
If yes please confirm that you have contacted our
procurement services to discuss your requirements. No
SCREENING
You must indicate if there is any relevance to the four areas
Duty to eliminate discrimination (E), advance equal
opportunities (A) or foster good relations (F) Yes
Relevance to Human Rights (HR) Yes
Relevance to Health Impacts (H) Yes
Relevance to Social Economic Impacts (SE) Yes
Who will be affected by this policy?
All children and young people attending our primary and secondary schools and their families
Teachers Other Council departments who currently provide this service.
Who will be/has been involved in the consultation process?
All children, young people and families. Consultation with other Council department who
currently provide this service and any impact on staffing within other departments.
Consultation with HR, HTs and TU’s to advise of possible changes.
Please outline any particular need/barriers which equality groups may have in relation
to this policy list evidence you are using to support this and whether there is any
negative impact on particular groups.
 
Needs Evidence Impact
Age

Page 74

Cross Cutting
It is important to
consider how
elements may
interact.
Reducing the
number of days at
school would reduce
the burden of the
cost of the school
day on families, but
focus would need to
be given to ensure
identified groups
and families were
still benefitting from
FME and options of
activities on the 5th
day.
Positive / Neutral
Disability
The Council had a
duty to make its
services accessible
to disabled people,
including pupils.
This is an
anticipatory duty.
We must seek to
mitigate any
negative impacts.
Households with one
or more disabled
person are more
likely to be income
deprived.
Programme of
activities would
need to be provided
for the 5th day.
Neutral
Social & Economic
Impact
The Council needs to
consider the
interplay between
social and economic
factors.
This is cross cutting
with other areas that
may impact of the
socioeconomic
wellbeing of
families.
This may have a
negative impact . We
would need to
ensure families in
receipt of FME were
catered for with
activities on 5th day.
Adverse impact on
other families due to
potential childcare
costs
Sex
Women/single
parents; Priority
group in terms of
child poverty
Women are more
likely to income
deprived than men.
Around 90% of
single parents are
women.
Negative
Gender Reassign
Health
Health and
wellbeing are a
priority for the
Council as noted in
our Strategic Plan
22-27.
Reducing the
number of days at
school could impact
positively on the
wellbeing of staff
and pupils, provided
options to improve
wellbeing were
offered as part of the
programme of
activities for the 5th
Positive

Page 75

day. Careful
exploration of times
of 4 days to ensure
this is not
detrimental.
Human Rights
UNCRC Article 3 Best
interests of the child
Every decision and
action taken relating
to a child must be in
their best interests.
Balance between
increasing the
amount of time on 4
days, with the
benefit of wider
activities on the 5th
day.
Neutral
Marriage & Civil
Partnership
Pregnancy &
Maternity
Race
BME families are a
Priority group in
terms of child
poverty.
People from BME
groups are more
likely to be income
deprived than those
from white groups.
Negative
Religion and Belief
Sexual Orientation
Actions
Policy has a negative impact on an equality group,but is still to be implemented, please
provide justification for this.
The council has a duty to present a balanced budget. Negative impacts noted above would be
mitigated through the development of 5th day activities.
Will the impact of the policy be monitored and reported on an ongoing bases?
We will monitor impact by consulting Head Teachers/Pupils/Families. Monitoring will be
carried out on a termly basis.
Q7 What is you recommendation for this policy?
Intoduce
Please provide a meaningful summary of how you have reached the recommendation
EIA 622: Some potential negative impacts noted in section 2 of the EIA in terms of disability,
health and cross cutting elements need to be addressed with the reinvestment of part of the
overall saving into alternative provision on the 5th day, ensuring that any negative impacts for
groups and individuals are overcome.

Page 76

AssessmentNo 625 Owner rrea
Resource Transformation Service/Establishment Budget CCF
 
First Name Surname Job title
Head Officer Amanda Graham Chief Officer CCF
(include job titles/organisation)
Members Amanda Graham CO Ricardo Rea Performance and Strategy officer
 
(Please note: the word 'policy' is used as shorthand for stategy policy
function or financial decision)
Policy Title CCF21-Review grants to strategic partners - Shopmobility
 
The aim, objective,purpose and intended out come of policy
The Council provides grant support to a number of strategic partner
organisations in West Dunbartonshire. Shopmobility delivers a mobility
scooter, manual and powered wheelchair service to residents from its
base in Clydebank Shopping Centre. Under this proposal, the current
grant of £47,670 provided to Shopmobility by the Council would reduce
by between 25% and 90% At the current level of grant funding the
Councils provided approximately 22% of the organisation's income
 
 
Service/Partners/Stakeholders/service users involved in the
development and/or implementation of policy.
TBC
Does the proposals involve the procurement of any goods or
services? Yes
If yes please confirm that you have contacted our
procurement services to discuss your requirements. No
SCREENING
You must indicate if there is any relevance to the four areas
Duty to eliminate discrimination (E), advance equal
opportunities (A) or foster good relations (F) Yes
Relevance to Human Rights (HR) No
Relevance to Health Impacts (H) Yes
Relevance to Social Economic Impacts (SE) Yes
Who will be affected by this policy?
Disabled people and their carers and families, Staff and volunteers of Clyde Shopmobility.
In addition to the provision of scooters and wheelchairs, Shopmobility delivers a range of
support to residents with physical impairments to increase independence, reduce
isolation and ensure equality. This includes provision of trained sighted to accompany
those who are visually impaired to support them with tasks such as shopping or to attend
events and facilitating a number of groups for walking, yoga, knitting and photography.
Who will be/has been involved in the consultation process?
Please outline any particular need/barriers which equality groups may have in
relation to this policy list evidence you are using to support this and whether there
is any negative impact on particular groups.
 
Needs Evidence Impact
Age Social inclusion and
mobility in this
The service is
extensively used by
Negative Funding
reductions

Page 77

context are relevant
in this context
older people
Evidence suggest
that older people are
more at risk than
some other age
groups of social
isolation Older
people are more
likely to be disabled.
negatively affect the
amount the services
that CSM can
provide
Cross Cutting
It is important that
the council takes
account of how
factors interact to
affect people and
groups
Evidence suggests
that BME, Disabled
people, women and
younger people have
been particularly
affected by COVID
and Cost of Living
impacts.
Factors such as sex,
disability and age
may interact in this
circumstance to
multiple effects of
any service
reductions.
Disability
The Council has an
Equality outcome on
increasing the
participation of
disabled people
The service is
extensively used by
disabled people.
Disabled people are
more likely to
experience poverty
compared to non-
disabled people
Evidence suggest
that disabled people
are more at risk than
non disabled people
of social isolation
Negative Funding
reductions
negatively affect the
amount the services
that CSM can
provide
Social & Economic
Impact
The Council must
have due regard to
the Fairer Scotland
Duty, in terms of
Social Economic
impacts, and the
Statutory Guidance
The service acts to
encourage shopping
in Clydebank,
especially the
shopping centre The
organization
currently employs 9
members of staff*
and has 'TBC'
number of
volunteers
Revenue of shops in
the Clyde shopping
center and
surrounding area
may be negatively
affected. This could
also occur more
widely in WD. There
may be a negative
financial affect on
service users if
provision is reduced.
Sex
The Council needs to
have regard to the
differential impact of
decisions on
relevant protected
groups
More female than
male service users
If there were service
reduction these may
tend to affect men
more than women
Gender Reassign
Health
The Council
recognizes health
and wellbeing as a
priority.
The service supports
social interaction
among groups at
risk of isolation.
Reductions in
service may
negatively impact on
this aspect

Page 78

Human Rights
Marriage & Civil
Partnership
Pregnancy &
Maternity
Race
Religion and Belief
Sexual Orientation
Actions
Policy has a negative impact on an equality group,but is still to be implemented,
please provide justification for this.
Will the impact of the policy be monitored and reported on an ongoing bases?
Q7 What is you recommendation for this policy?
Please provide a meaningful summary of how you have reached the
recommendation
EIA 625 details potential impacts: current Council funding makes up approximately 22%
of CSM income. Reduction of funding may negatively affect services users of Clyde
Shopmobility, more likely to be older and disabled and staff and volunteers of the
organisation. There may also be a negative economic effect in terms of money spent in
Clydebank area in particular and in West Dunbartonshire more generally. There could
also be negative effects in terms of reduced capacity to provide services that counter
social isolation.

Page 79

AssessmentNo 626 Owner andbrown
Resource Transformation Service/Establishment Budget Ed
 
First Name Surname Job title
Head Officer Laura Mason Chief Education Officer
(include job titles/organisation)
Members
Andrew Brown - Senior Education Officer Julie McGrogan - Senior
Education Officer Kathy Morrison - Senior Education Officer Claire Cusick -
Senior Education Officer Ellen Moran - Principal Educational Psychologist
 
(Please note: the word 'policy' is used as shorthand for stategy policy
function or financial decision)
Policy Title Savings Option EDU11 - Education Maintenance Allowance
 
The aim, objective,purpose and intended out come of policy
Education Maintenance Allowance (EMA) gives financial support to eligible
16 – 19 year olds who want to continue learning. The statutory amount for
EMA is a weekly payment of £30, paid every two weeks in arrears.
Presently, West Dunbartonshire Council pay an additional £5 per week
where a young person has 100% attendance. This savings proposal would
reduce the amount we provide to the statutory level of £30 per week.
 
 
Service/Partners/Stakeholders/service users involved in the
development and/or implementation of policy.
Consultation with other Council services who currently assist in the
provision of this service. Consultation with HR, HTs/HOC’s, TU’s to advise
of possible changes.
Does the proposals involve the procurement of any goods or
services? Yes
If yes please confirm that you have contacted our
procurement services to discuss your requirements. No
SCREENING
You must indicate if there is any relevance to the four areas
Duty to eliminate discrimination (E), advance equal
opportunities (A) or foster good relations (F) Yes
Relevance to Human Rights (HR) Yes
Relevance to Health Impacts (H) Yes
Relevance to Social Economic Impacts (SE) Yes
Who will be affected by this policy?
All young people presently in receipt of the Education Maintenance Allowance who achieve
100% attendance.
Who will be/has been involved in the consultation process?
Consultation with other Council departments who are currently involved in the provision
of this service. Consultation with HR, HTs/HOC’s and TU’s to advise of possible changes.
Please outline any particular need/barriers which equality groups may have in
relation to this policy list evidence you are using to support this and whether there is
any negative impact on particular groups.
 
Needs Evidence Impact
Age
EMA is provided to
16-19 year olds in
education. The top-
Reducing the
amount paid will
impact negatively on
Negative

Page 80

up to the EMA is
given to a small sub-
set who achieve
100% attendance.
those in receipt, but
whilst many achieve
100% for a number
of weeks in the
session, few achieve
100% attendance for
the whole session.
Cross Cutting
Disability
Priority group in
terms of child
poverty
Households with one
or more disabled
person are more
likely to be income
deprived.
Negative
Social & Economic
Impact
The Council needs to
consider the
interplay between
social and economic
factors.
Historically the EMA
has been increased
locally as a direct
response to need.
The additional
amount provided
presently is where a
young person
achieves 100%
attendance, so there
may be an adverse
impact on
attendance.
Negative Impact A
reduction in
household income
by reducing the EMA
will impact the
poorest in our
communities.
Sex
Women/single
parents; Priority
group in terms of
child poverty
Women are more
likely to income
deprived than men.
Around 90% of
single parents are
women.
Negative
Gender Reassign
Health
Health and
wellbeing are a
priority for the
Council as noted in
our Strategic Plan
22-27.
Household income
has a direct
correlation to health.
Negative Impact
There is a direct
correlation between
household income
and health -
reducing the EMA
will impact
negatively on health.
Human Rights
Article 28 of UNCRC
declared that
children and young
people have a right
to education no
matter who they are.
Payment of an EMA
is incentive to stay
on in education
beyond the statutory
leaving age.
Reducing this
incentive will impact
negatively on young
people from more
income deprived
households.
Negative
Marriage & Civil

Page 81

Partnership
Pregnancy &
Maternity
Race
BME families are a
Priority group in
terms of child
poverty.
People from BME
groups are more
likely to be income
deprived than those
from white groups.
Negative
Religion and Belief
Sexual Orientation
Actions
Policy has a negative impact on an equality group,but is still to be implemented,
please provide justification for this.
As above.
Will the impact of the policy be monitored and reported on an ongoing bases?
We will monitor impact by consulting Head Teachers/Young People. Monitoring will be
carried out on a termly basis.
Q7 What is you recommendation for this policy?
Intoduce
Please provide a meaningful summary of how you have reached the
recommendation
EIA 626: Whilst the change in policy will see a reduction in the amount given to those in
receipt of an EMA, they will still receive the statutory amount; There be a negative financial
impact of potentially £200 per year per young person. Families from BME groups, families
with disabled people, and single parent families are more likely to be income deprived and
experience poverty/child poverty. There may be an adverse impact on attendance which
will be monitored.

Page 82

AssessmentNo 627 Owner andbrown
Resource Transformation Service/Establishment Budget Ed
 
First Name Surname Job title
Head Officer Laura Mason Chief Education Officer
(include job titles/organisation)
Members
Andrew Brown - Senior Education Officer Julie McGrogan - Senior Education
Officer Kathy Morrison - Senior Education Officer Claire Cusick - Senior
Education Officer Ellen Moran - Principal Educational Psychologist
 
(Please note: the word 'policy' is used as shorthand for stategy policy
function or financial decision)
Policy Title Savings Option EDU07 - School Clothing Grant
 
The aim, objective,purpose and intended out come of policy
When agreeing the 2022/23 revenue budget on 9 March 2022 the Council
agreed to double the school clothing grant to £300. This created a revenue
pressure of £0.774m. In 2022/23 this was funded through Local Authority
COVID Economic Recovery (LACER) funds as the Scottish government agreed
that these funds could be used ‘To support the low-income households that are
disproportionately impacted by the pandemic and the current cost of living
crisis, to become more economically active.’ However the LACER funding has
been fully utilised and is not available to fund this policy in future years.
Therefore it creates a cost pressure on the general fund in future years. Option
A This option would mean the doubling of the school grant would still apply in
2022/23 but, from 2023/24 onwards, it would revert back to £150 of which
£120 is funded by the Scottish Government for primary school children and the
full £150 is funded for secondary school children. It is noted that awarding
£150 for both primary and secondary is still a higher than the majority of other
local authorities as most only provide £120 for primary school children. This
option would generate £774k of savings. Option B This option would mean the
doubling of the school grant would still apply in 2022/23 but, from 2023/24
onwards, it would change to the Scottish Government funded provision of £120
for primary school children, and £150 for secondary children. This option
would generate a further saving of circa £65k meaning the entire saving would
be £839k.
 
 
Service/Partners/Stakeholders/service users involved in the
development and/or implementation of policy.
Consultation with other Council services who currently assist in the provision
of this service. Consultation with HR, HTs/HOC’s, TU’s to advise of possible
changes.
Does the proposals involve the procurement of any goods or
services? Yes
If yes please confirm that you have contacted our
procurement services to discuss your requirements. No
SCREENING
You must indicate if there is any relevance to the four areas
Duty to eliminate discrimination (E), advance equal
opportunities (A) or foster good relations (F) Yes
Relevance to Human Rights (HR) Yes

Page 83

Relevance to Health Impacts (H) Yes
Relevance to Social Economic Impacts (SE) Yes
Who will be affected by this policy?
Children attending schools, as this will affect their families ability to fund suitable clothing for
school and school uniform.
Who will be/has been involved in the consultation process?
Consultation with other Council department who currently provide this service. Consultation
with HR, HTs and TU’s to advise of possible impact on families.
Please outline any particular need/barriers which equality groups may have in relation
to this policy list evidence you are using to support this and whether there is any
negative impact on particular groups.
 
Needs Evidence Impact
Age
Cross Cutting
The Council has a
focus on reducing
child poverty We
should have a focus
on intersectionality
Cost of the school
day is a
consideration
Disability
Priority group in
terms of child
poverty
Households with one
or more disabled
person are more
likely to be income
deprived.
Negative
Social & Economic
Impact
The Council needs to
consider the
interplay between
social and economic
factors.
Historically the
School Clothing
Grant has been
increased locally as a
direct response to
need.
Negative Impact A
reduction in
household income
by reducing the
School Clothing
Grant will impact the
poorest in our
communities.
Sex
Women/single
parents; Priority
group in terms of
child poverty
Women are more
likely to income
deprived than men.
Around 90% of
single parents are
women.
Negative
Gender Reassign
Health
Health and
wellbeing are a
priority for the
Council as noted in
our Strategic Plan
22-27.
Household income
has a direct
correlation to health
and wellbeing.
Negative Impact
There is a direct
correlation between
household income
and health -
reducing the School
Clothing Grant will
impact negatively on
health and
wellbeing.
Human Rights
The right to clothing
is recognized as a
human right
Article 25 of UDHR Negative
Marriage & Civil

Page 84

Partnership
Pregnancy &
Maternity
Race
BME families are a
Priority group in
terms of child
poverty.
People from BME
groups are more
likely to be income
deprived than those
from white groups.
Negative
Religion and Belief
Sexual Orientation
Actions
Policy has a negative impact on an equality group,but is still to be implemented, please
provide justification for this.
As above.
Will the impact of the policy be monitored and reported on an ongoing bases?
We will monitor impact by consulting Head Teachers. Monitoring will be carried out on a
termly basis.
Q7 What is you recommendation for this policy?
Intoduce
Please provide a meaningful summary of how you have reached the recommendation
EIA 627: Whilst both options will see a reduction in the amount given in School Clothing Grant,
which may have more effect on some groups than others, however both options keep us in line
with our statutory obligation.

Page 85

AssessmentNo 628 Owner rrea
Resource Transformation Service/Establishment Budget CCF
 
First Name Surname Job title
Head Officer Amanda Graham Chief Officer CCF
(include job titles/organisation)
Members Ricardo Rea Performance and Strategy Officer Amanda Graham, CO CCF
 
(Please note: the word 'policy' is used as shorthand for stategy policy
function or financial decision)
Policy Title CCF22-Review of Grant Funding, Antonine Sports Centre
 
The aim, objective,purpose and intended out come of policy
Under this proposal, the current grant of £49,156 provided to the Antonine by
the Council would reduce by between 25% and 90% The current Council grant
provides approximately 17% of the organisations income The Council provides
grant support to a number of strategic partner organisations in West
Dunbartonshire. The Antonine Sports Centre is an independent charity which
has offered access to sports and community facilities in Duntocher for over 30
years.
 
 
Service/Partners/Stakeholders/service users involved in the
development and/or implementation of policy.
TBC
Does the proposals involve the procurement of any goods or
services? Yes
If yes please confirm that you have contacted our
procurement services to discuss your requirements. No
SCREENING
You must indicate if there is any relevance to the four areas
Duty to eliminate discrimination (E), advance equal
opportunities (A) or foster good relations (F) Yes
Relevance to Human Rights (HR) Yes
Relevance to Health Impacts (H) Yes
Relevance to Social Economic Impacts (SE) Yes
Who will be affected by this policy?
Current service users and staff Members of the public especially those who live in the
surrounding areas including Faifley who might want to use facilities in future. Antonine Sports
Centre (ASC) is the closet such facility for people living in Duntocher and Faifley
Who will be/has been involved in the consultation process?
Antonine Sports Centre (ASC) will be consulted about potential impact, and this will be fed into
this impact assessment.
Please outline any particular need/barriers which equality groups may have in relation
to this policy list evidence you are using to support this and whether there is any
negative impact on particular groups.
 
Needs Evidence Impact
Age
The Council has an
equality outcome in
relation to
increasing
The organization has
stated focus on:
Older people and
Children and Young
Dependent on effect
of any reductions
and profile of service
users

Page 86

involvement of
younger people in
Community
Empowerment The
Equality Act requires
that services do not
discriminate.
people
Cross Cutting
The Council's
Community
empowerment
strategy encourages
Communities to get
involved in their
local areas, and links
with our Equality
Outocmes for 21-25
It is important that
the Council takes
into account how
combine to affect
different groups and
individuals
Evidence suggests
that BME, Disabled
people, women and
younger people have
been particularly
affected by COVID
and Cost of Living
impacts.
Dependent on effect
of any reductions
and profile of service
users
Disability
The Equality Act
requires that
services are
accessible to
disabled people. The
Council has an
equality outcome in
relation to
increasing
involvement of
disabled people in
Community
Empowerment
The organization has
a stated focus on:
Disabled people.
Disabled people are
more likely to be
income deprived
than non-disabled
people.
Dependent on effect
of any reductions
and profile of service
users
Social & Economic
Impact
The Council must
have regard to the
Fairer Scotland Duty
The organisation has
12 employees.
Overall Duntocher
has lower than
average child
poverty and early
mortality, but there
are SIMD some more
deprived areas
immediately to the
North west and
further to the east of
the ASC Failey which
suffer from
significant
deprivation is close
by.
Negative impacts if
workforce was
reduced Potential
negative impact on
more deprived
communities if they
currently use the
Centre and services
are reduced or costs
increased
Sex The Equality Act Women are more Dependent on effect

Page 87

requires that
services do not
discriminate.
likely to be income
deprived than men.
Women are less
likely to access to a
car than men.
of any reductions
and profile of service
users
Gender Reassign
Health
Health and
wellbeing is a focus
area of our 22-27
Strategic Plan
The organization has
stated focus on:
People with health
problems
Potential negative
impacts if services
provision was
reduced or costs
increased for users
Human Rights
Marriage & Civil
Partnership
Pregnancy &
Maternity
Race
The Council has an
equality outcome in
relation to
increasing
involvement of BME
people in
Community
Empowerment The
Equality Act requires
that services do not
discriminate.
Most BME groups
are more likely than
most white groups
to be income
deprived. Overall
BME groups are less
likely to have access
to a car
Dependent on effect
of any reductions
and profile of service
users
Religion and Belief
Sexual Orientation
Actions
Policy has a negative impact on an equality group,but is still to be implemented, please
provide justification for this.
Will the impact of the policy be monitored and reported on an ongoing bases?
Q7 What is you recommendation for this policy?
Please provide a meaningful summary of how you have reached the recommendation
EIA 628 details potential impacts of funding reductions, currently Council funding makes up
approximately 17% of the ASC's income; Impacts are Dependent on effect of any reductions and
profile of service users, but these may be negative for older and younger people and disabled
people and possibility women.

Page 88

AssessmentNo 629 Owner gmcnamara
Resource
Regeneration,
Environment
and Growth
Service/Establishment Budget R and R
 
First Name Surname Job title
Head Officer Gillian McNamara Economic Development Manager
(include job titles/organisation)
Members Gillian McNamara Alan Douglas
 
(Please note: the word 'policy' is used as shorthand for stategy policy function or
financial decision)
Policy Title RR-12 Budget Savings 2023 - Economic Development Service
 
The aim, objective,purpose and intended out come of policy
To consider two options to reduce revenue within the Business Support team of
economic development, involving reduction of discretionary budgets and staff
numbers.
 
 
Service/Partners/Stakeholders/service users involved in the development
and/or implementation of policy.
Economic Development team Business Clients
Does the proposals involve the procurement of any goods or
services? Yes
If yes please confirm that you have contacted our procurement
services to discuss your requirements. Yes
SCREENING
You must indicate if there is any relevance to the four areas
Duty to eliminate discrimination (E), advance equal
opportunities (A) or foster good relations (F) Yes
Relevance to Human Rights (HR) No
Relevance to Health Impacts (H) No
Relevance to Social Economic Impacts (SE) Yes
Who will be affected by this policy?
Employees within the Economic Development service - Business Support team. Local Businesses
Who will be/has been involved in the consultation process?
Discussions with trade unions and Business Support team employees. All Business Gateway services
are evaluated by service users. This informs the development of services.
Please outline any particular need/barriers which equality groups may have in relation to
this policy list evidence you are using to support this and whether there is any negative
impact on particular groups.
 
Needs Evidence Impact
Age
Younger people may
lack the knowledge
and skills to set up
or run a business.
Business Gateway
will help them gain
these skills and
knowledge and can
Evidence suggests
that younger and
older entrepreneurs
face particular sets
of challenges
Reduction in
number of local
workshops and
expert help available
to support people of
all ages to start up
and run businesses.

Page 89

link them with
specialist support,
e.g. Princes Trust for
Business. Young
Enterprise scheme.
In terms of older
members of this
equality group,
setting up a business
may help them to
overcome barriers
such as age
discrimination by
employers.
Cross Cutting
We need to ensure
that we take account
of how factors
interact
A reduction in
business support
provision during a
period where
businesses are
facing a number of
challenges including
rising inflation and
rising energy costs.
Feedback is sought
from all Business
Gateway users and
informs the
development of the
service. Evidence
suggests that BME,
Disabled people,
women and younger
people have been
particularly affected
by COVID and Cost
of Living impacts.
There will be a
reduction in capacity
overall, but help and
advice will remain
available to the
population of West
Dunbartonshire to
set up and run
businesses, thereby
positively impacting
on them personally
and on West
Dunbartonshire
generally.
Disability
We have a legal duty
to ensure services
are accessible to
disabled people The
Council has an
equality outcome on
increasing
participation
generally from this
group.
In terms of Disability
we can link those
with disability issues
to specialist advice
and support, e.g.
adaptation of
business premises.
Helping members of
this group to run a
business could
address barriers
they face, e.g. low
pay.
Help and advice will
continue to be
provided to those
with disability issues
to overcome
employment and
income related
barriers.
Social & Economic
Impact
We need to ensure
that strategic
decisions such as
services provision
Reduction of
Business Support
service provision
provided to local
The business
support
programmes
through the UK

Page 90

take account of the
Fairer Scotland Duty
businesses.
Feedback is sought
from all Business
Gateway users and
informs the
development of the
service.
Shared Prosperity
Fund will help to
reduce the impact of
the reduced grant
support available to
local businesses.
Sex
We need to act in
line with the Public
Sector Equality Duty,
including having due
regard to any
differential impacts
Staff: Discussions
will be held with
trade unions and
employees who may
be affected. Service
users: Women are
more Likely to be
income deprived
than men. There is
substantial UK
evidence of
additional barriers
women face in
setting up
businesses
In terms of this
equality group
option 1 will affect
female members of
staff due to the
composition of the
team. Option 2 could
affect either female
or male employees
due to the make-up
of the team. Four
employees may
require to be
redeployed through
the Switch Policy.
Gender Reassign
Business Gateway is
not targeted
specifically on
people in this
equality group but is
available to all.
Evidence suggests
that Trans people
face particular
barriers in the UK in
terms of setting up
businesses
Help and advice will
remain available to
members of this
group to set up and
run businesses.
Health
As savings options
may involve
reduction of
employee numbers
this could have an
effect on employee's
mental health.
Discussions will take
place with trade
unions and
employees within
the Business
Support team.
Additional support
will be available to
any employees
impacted by the
savings options to
ensure their health
and wellbeing.
Human Rights
We are duty Bearer
in terms of the
Human Rights Act
Articles 8 (with
respect to work) and
Articles 14 (non
discrimination) are
relevant in this
situation
In terms of human
rights we have for
example provided
specific support to
the asylum seeker
population of West
Dunbartonshire.Fee
dback is sought from
all Business Gateway
users and informs
the development of
the service.
Help and advice will
remain available to
all
Marriage & Civil
Partnership
Business Gateway is
not targeted
specifically on
people in this
equality group but is
available to all.
This cross cuts with
considerations
under 'sex'
Help and advice will
remain available to
members of this
group to set up and
run businesses.

Page 91

Pregnancy &
Maternity
In terms of this
equality group,
helping members of
this group to run a
business could
address barriers
they face, e.g.
employment
discrimination.
This cross cuts with
considerations
under 'sex'
Help and advice will
remain available to
members of this
group to set up and
run businesses and
avoid employment
discrimination.
Race
The Council has an
equality outcome on
increasing
participation
generally from this
group.
Uk evidence
suggests that BME
entrepreneurs face
particular challenges
We can link users to
specialist support
and advice, e.g.
groups offering
support for Black
and Minority Ethnic
entrepreneurs. We
have also provided
support to asylum
seekers resident in
West
Dunbartonshire to
help start up and run
businesses.
Help and advice will
remain available to
members of this
group to set up and
run businesses and
overcome racial
discrimination, and
possible low-income
issues.
Religion and Belief
Business Gateway is
not targeted
specifically on
people in this
equality group but is
available to all.
Feedback is sought
from all Business
Gateway users and
informs the
development of the
service.
Help and advice will
remain available to
members of this
group to set up and
run businesses.
Sexual Orientation
Business Gateway is
not targeted
specifically on
people in this
equality group but is
available to all.
Evidence suggests
that LGB people face
particular barriers in
the UK in terms of
setting up
businesses
Help and advice will
remain available to
members of this
group to set up and
run businesses.
Actions
Policy has a negative impact on an equality group,but is still to be implemented, please
provide justification for this.
Option 1 will have negative effects on female employees due to the composition of the team. If this
savings option is taken this will result in the redeployment of two female employees of the business
support team. Option 2 could affect male or female employees and if taken would result in a further
two employees being redeployed through the Switch Policy. Option 2 may also impact on the
Council’s ability to deliver on performance targets required for the UK Shared Prosperity Fund. The
proposed budget reductions for workshops, expert help and business grant support would have an
effect on service provision and would reduce the amount of support available to our local businesses
at a time where they continue to face a period of hardship and a number of economic challenges.
Will the impact of the policy be monitored and reported on an ongoing bases?

Page 92

Yes It is important as with other services the Council provides that service development take
account equalities factors and are informed by robust EIAs
Q7 What is you recommendation for this policy?
Intoduce
Please provide a meaningful summary of how you have reached the recommendation
EIA 629: We have assessed the impact of Option 1 and Option 2 of the proposed Economic
Development savings options against the various equality groups and issues they may face. We
believe that Option 1 will have a direct impact on female employees and result in 2 female
employees requiring to be redeployed. Option 2 may affect male or female employees and may
require a further 2 employees to be redeployed through the Switch Policy. It has been highlighted
that Option 2 may have a negative effect on the Business Support team's ability to deliver the
business support programmes through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund. The proposed reduction in
the business support revenue budget will reduce the service provision available through Business
Support/Business Gateway team at a time when local businesses are struggling with a number of
on-going economic challenges such as rising energy costs and rising inflation.

Page 93

AssessmentNo 630 Owner sdaly
Resource Transformation Service/Establishment Budget CCF
 
First Name Surname Job title
Head Officer Amanda Graham Chief Officer
(include job titles/organisation)
Members Stephen Daly - Citizen and Library Service Manager
 
(Please note: the word 'policy' is used as shorthand for stategy policy
function or financial decision)
Policy Title CCF-12 Citizen Services Provision at Church Street
 
The aim, objective,purpose and intended out come of policy
The front desk at Church Street is the only office location where residents
can access services face to face. Under this option, the service would be
removed and residents would be directed to use the phone lines currently
provided in reception to call the contact centre or, in the case of
emergencies, contact the services direct. This would generate a saving of
circa £30,000 per annum.
 
 
Service/Partners/Stakeholders/service users involved in the
development and/or implementation of policy.
Citizen Services
Does the proposals involve the procurement of any goods or
services? No
If yes please confirm that you have contacted our
procurement services to discuss your requirements. No
SCREENING
You must indicate if there is any relevance to the four areas
Duty to eliminate discrimination (E), advance equal
opportunities (A) or foster good relations (F) Yes
Relevance to Human Rights (HR) Yes
Relevance to Health Impacts (H) Yes
Relevance to Social Economic Impacts (SE) Yes
Who will be affected by this policy?
Members of the public both service users and potential service users Staff may receive
more telephone and other queries if face to face is removed
Who will be/has been involved in the consultation process?
Please outline any particular need/barriers which equality groups may have in
relation to this policy list evidence you are using to support this and whether there
is any negative impact on particular groups.
 
Needs Evidence Impact
Age
The Council must
not discriminate in
the way it provided
services
Older people are
more likely to be
disabled Most older
BME groups are
more likely to be
income deprived
compared to most
Negative

Page 94

older white ethnic
groups
Cross Cutting
We need to take into
account how factors
combine to impact
groups and
individuals
No clear evidence of
impact of similar
change caused by
closing of CTCO, as
this was done during
covid lockdown.
Over impact would
be negative
Interplay of factors
such as sex, race and
disability can
magnify likely hold
of consequences
Disability
The council has a
legal duty to ensure
that services are
accessible to all
disabled people, this
duty is proactive
/anticipatory, and
also requires that we
make reasonable
adjustments as
necessary
Some disabled
people will not be
able to use phones
or have difficultly
doing so, e.g. hearing
loss is the most
common form of
sensory impairment.
Lack of face to face
contact may provide
extra difficulties for
some people.
Disabled people, and
households with any
disabled person are
more likely to be
income deprived
Negative
Social & Economic
Impact
We need to have
regard to the Fairer
Scotland Duty in
terms of strategic
decisions including
on how services are
delivered The
Council views
tackling poverty and
deprivation as a
major concern, and
mitigating these
effects as much as
possible
Having no face to
face option for initial
contact would mean
that those who could
not use phone of
digital method,
because of lack of
resources and funds
could be
discriminated
against
More negative for
those in financial
distress
Sex
Servcices must not
adhere to the public
sector equality duty
(PSED)
Women staff this
work station On
average women are
more income
deprived than men,
e.g. women make up
90% of single
parents. Women and
children are more
likely to experience
domestic abuse and
gender based
violence, and for
Staffing: Negative
Differential impact
in terms of sex,
women would likely
be affected

Page 95

example may have
been cut off from
money and bank
accounts
Gender Reassign
Health
Health and well
being is council
focus area as noted
in our Strategic Plan
22-27
People will often
need to contact the
Council at times of
great stress.
Lack of a face to face
could increase stress
for some people
Human Rights
The council is a duty
bearer in terms of
the European
Convention of
Human
Rights/Human
rights Act e.g. and
Article 14, non-
discrimination It is
important to
consider how
children and young
people might be
affected.
Human rights
crosscut with those
under equalities, for
examples disability
provisions, and
comments under
gender based
violence, women and
children
Ensuring accessible
services is required
to protect human
rights, including
children's rights
Marriage & Civil
Partnership
Pregnancy &
Maternity
Race
Servcices must not
adhere to the public
sector equality duty
(PSED)
The council does not
have a system in
place to ensure that
Language Line can
be accessed for
callers on the
telephone, in
contrast we have
used language Line
at Physical public
counters People
from most BME
groups are more
likely to be income
deprived than
people from most
white ethnic groups.
Potential negative
for all groups and
especially negative
for BME groups who
are more likely to
have Commnication
needs relating to
language that would
currently be much
better address via
initial face to face
contact
Religion and Belief
Sexual Orientation
Actions
Policy has a negative impact on an equality group,but is still to be implemented,
please provide justification for this.
Issues highlighted by proposal. Ensure Language Line is available to communicate with

Page 96

phone callers.
Will the impact of the policy be monitored and reported on an ongoing bases?
Q7 What is you recommendation for this policy?
Don't Introduce
Please provide a meaningful summary of how you have reached the
recommendation
EIA 630 details likely negative impacts in terms of race, disability and age, health, human
rights and socio-economic impact. Some challenges described can be mitigated with
effective signposting and service delivery continuing via the emergency repairs line for
those unable to report online, however the lack of any face to face option for the council if
this was removed, could theoretically breach the Equality Act in combination with other
factors if a service was inaccessible to disabled people.

Page 97

AssessmentNo 631 Owner mrodger
Resource Transformation Service/Establishment Budget CCF
 
First Name Surname Job title
Head Officer Amanda Graham Chief Officer Citizen, Culture and Facilities
(include job titles/organisation)
Members Citizen, Culture and Facilities
 
(Please note: the word 'policy' is used as shorthand for stategy policy function
or financial decision)
Policy Title CCF-16 Savings Option-reduce two posts from Citizen, Culture and Facilities and
performance areas
 
The aim, objective,purpose and intended out come of policy
Post one: This post will be a straight transfer to another department, with no
detriment to the employee. Post two: This post will be removed from the
structure. Minor duties will be shared within existing members of the team and/or
added to a currently vacant post with a new job description created and the
position advertised. The current holder of the post wishes to leave the Council.
 
 
Service/Partners/Stakeholders/service users involved in the development
and/or implementation of policy.
None
Does the proposals involve the procurement of any goods or
services? No
If yes please confirm that you have contacted our
procurement services to discuss your requirements. No
SCREENING
You must indicate if there is any relevance to the four areas
Duty to eliminate discrimination (E), advance equal
opportunities (A) or foster good relations (F) No
Relevance to Human Rights (HR) No
Relevance to Health Impacts (H) No
Relevance to Social Economic Impacts (SE) No
Who will be affected by this policy?
Who will be/has been involved in the consultation process?
Please outline any particular need/barriers which equality groups may have in relation to
this policy list evidence you are using to support this and whether there is any negative
impact on particular groups.
 
Needs Evidence Impact
Age
Cross Cutting
Disability
Social & Economic
Impact
Sex
Gender Reassign
Health

Page 98

Human Rights
Marriage & Civil
Partnership
Pregnancy &
Maternity
Race
Religion and Belief
Sexual Orientation
Actions
Policy has a negative impact on an equality group,but is still to be implemented, please
provide justification for this.
Will the impact of the policy be monitored and reported on an ongoing bases?
Q7 What is you recommendation for this policy?
Please provide a meaningful summary of how you have reached the recommendation
Screening 631: The proposal is not relevant for assessment, as changes are minor and staff the
reduction is voluntary, so no assessment is required.

Page 99

AssessmentNo 632 Owner sdaly
Resource Transformation Service/Establishment Budget CCF
 
First Name Surname Job title
Head Officer Amanda Graham Chief Officer
(include job titles/organisation)
Members Stephen Daly - Citizen and Library Manager
 
(Please note: the word 'policy' is used as shorthand for stategy policy
function or financial decision)
Policy Title CCF-17 Revise Housing Repairs Contact Centre Provision
 
The aim, objective,purpose and intended out come of policy
The option would see the contact centre replaced with a single emergency and
right to repair only manned phone line. All other reports would be via a
voicemail service, the website and email. This would result in the reduction of
four members of staff, generating a saving of circa £120,000 per annum. The
emergency controller would continue to operate out of hours, 365 days a year.
 
 
Service/Partners/Stakeholders/service users involved in the
development and/or implementation of policy.
Citizen Services Housing Repairs
Does the proposals involve the procurement of any goods or
services? No
If yes please confirm that you have contacted our
procurement services to discuss your requirements. No
SCREENING
You must indicate if there is any relevance to the four areas
Duty to eliminate discrimination (E), advance equal
opportunities (A) or foster good relations (F) Yes
Relevance to Human Rights (HR) Yes
Relevance to Health Impacts (H) Yes
Relevance to Social Economic Impacts (SE) Yes
Who will be affected by this policy?
West Dunbartonshire Council Housing Tenants West Dunbartonshire Council Property and
Assets customers Settlement Team
Who will be/has been involved in the consultation process?
Citizens services
Please outline any particular need/barriers which equality groups may have in relation
to this policy list evidence you are using to support this and whether there is any
negative impact on particular groups.
 
Needs Evidence Impact
Age
The Council must
not discriminate in
the way it provided
services.
Older people are
more likely to be
disabled e.g., to be
hard of hearing,
those leaving
messages may
present an extra
challenge.
Negative for some
older people

Page 100

Cross Cutting
It is important that
the Council takes
account of how
factors might
interact.
If relying on
messages being left,
systems in place
would need to
provide a reliable
and timely
callback/contact.
Increased waiting
time may have
negative effect on
both services users
and staff overall.
Disability
The council has a
legal duty to make
its services
accessible to
disabled people, this
is both proactively
('Anticipatory') and
also requires
Reasonable
Adjustments.
E.g. People who are
hard of hearing,
people who are Deaf.
Leaving a message
may present an
extra challenge for
some people.
Negative for some
disabled people May
also impact
negatively on BSL
users
Social & Economic
Impact
Sex
Gender Reassign
Health
Health and
wellbeing is a focus
area in the Council's
Strategic Plan
Accessing help and
advice in good time
helps reduce stress.
Could have negative
impact of services
users due to stress
of not being able to
speak to someone.
Human Rights
Marriage & Civil
Partnership
Pregnancy &
Maternity
Race
The Council must
not discriminate in
the way it provided
services
Service users with
no or little English
would potentially
face additional
barriers to accessing
services, a) It is
unclear how a
comprehesible
message could be
left, and b) we have
no system in place to
ensure that staff on
the emergency line
can access Language
Line
Negative for non
English speakers
Religion and Belief
Sexual Orientation
Actions
Policy has a negative impact on an equality group,but is still to be implemented, please
provide justification for this.

Page 101

The availability of the emergency repair service would remain in place. The individuals
affected negatively could contact via the emergency service line and receive the service as they
do presently. There would be a need and opportunity to put in place a robust system for call
backs via Language Line and using Contact BSL as required.
Will the impact of the policy be monitored and reported on an ongoing bases?
Q7 What is you recommendation for this policy?
Intoduce
Please provide a meaningful summary of how you have reached the recommendation
EIA 632 details potential negative impacts for some groups including older people, disabled
people and people who do not or cannot use English. In mitigation there is an opportunity to
improve systems for example building in a process for using Language Line for incoming calls
to the emergency line.

Page 102

AssessmentNo 633 Owner sdaly
Resource Transformation Service/Establishment Budget CCF
 
First Name Surname Job title
Head Officer Amanda Graham Chief Officer
(include job titles/organisation)
Members Stephen Daly - Citizen Services
 
(Please note: the word 'policy' is used as shorthand for stategy policy
function or financial decision)
Policy Title CCF-20 Review of Contact Centre
 
The aim, objective,purpose and intended out come of policy
Currently the contact centre employs 12 members of staff. Under this option,
the contact centre provision would continue with nine members of staff, with
work undertaken to promote alternative methods of contacting or reporting
issues to the Council including via email and via the website. This would
generate a saving of circa £90,000 per annum.
 
 
Service/Partners/Stakeholders/service users involved in the
development and/or implementation of policy.
Citizen Services
Does the proposals involve the procurement of any goods or
services? No
If yes please confirm that you have contacted our
procurement services to discuss your requirements. No
SCREENING
You must indicate if there is any relevance to the four areas
Duty to eliminate discrimination (E), advance equal
opportunities (A) or foster good relations (F) Yes
Relevance to Human Rights (HR) No
Relevance to Health Impacts (H) Yes
Relevance to Social Economic Impacts (SE) Yes
Who will be affected by this policy?
West Dunbartonshire Council Housing Tenants West Dunbartonshire Council Property and
Assets customers
Who will be/has been involved in the consultation process?
Citizen Services
Please outline any particular need/barriers which equality groups may have in relation
to this policy list evidence you are using to support this and whether there is any
negative impact on particular groups.
 
Needs Evidence Impact
Age
The Council must
not discriminate in
the way it provided
services
Older people are
more likely to be
disabled
Negative for some
older people
Cross Cutting
It is important that
the Council takes
account of how
factors might
If relying messages
being left, systems in
place would need to
provide a reliable
Increased waiting
time may have
negative effect on
both services users

Page 103

interact and timely
callback/contact and staff overall
Disability
The council has a
legal duty to make
its services
accessible to
disabled people, this
is both proactively
('Anticipatory') and
also requires
Reasonable
Adjustments.
Waiting time
increases may have
more effect on those
living with certain
impairments or
conditions
Negative for some
disabled people
Social & Economic
Impact
The Council has a
focus on reducing
poverty
Cross cuts with sex
in this instance
Negative see 'sex'
above
Sex
We need to take into
account differential
impacts
All staff are women
apart from one man
Women are more
likely to be in
poverty than men
e.g. women make up
90% of single
parents
Because of staff
composition
reduction on posts
will affect women
more than men
Gender Reassign
Health
Health and
wellbeing is focus
area in the Council's
Strategic Plan
Accessing help and
advice in good time
helps reduce stress
Waiting times likely
to increase
Could have negative
impact of services
users due to stress
of not being able to
speak to someone.
Could increase
stress of workers
Human Rights
Marriage & Civil
Partnership
Pregnancy &
Maternity
Race
The Council must
not discriminate in
the way it provided
services
Service users with
no or little English
would potentially
face additional
anxiety due to
increased waiting
time,. There is no
system in place for
language Line use in
this Contact method,
there is an
opportunity to build
this in.
Potentially more
negative for
speakers of
languages other than
English
Religion and Belief
Sexual Orientation
Actions

Page 104

Policy has a negative impact on an equality group,but is still to be implemented, please
provide justification for this.
The availability of the emergency repair service would remain in place. The individuals
affected negatively could contact via the emergency service line and receive the service as they
do presently. There would be a need and opportunity to put in place a robust system for calls
and call backs via Language Line and using Contact BSL as required.
Will the impact of the policy be monitored and reported on an ongoing bases?
Yes
Q7 What is you recommendation for this policy?
Intoduce
Please provide a meaningful summary of how you have reached the recommendation
EIA 633 details potential impacts for older people, disabled people and some members of
some BME groups. There would be a need and opportunity to put in place a robust system for
calls and call backs via Language Line and using Contact BSL as required. As the vast majority
of staff are female reductions are likely to affect women more than men.

Page 105

AssessmentNo 634 Owner ajgraham
Resource Transformation Service/Establishment Budget CCF
 
First Name Surname Job title
Head Officer Amanda Graham Chief Officer - CCF
(include job titles/organisation)
Members Amanda Graham
 
(Please note: the word 'policy' is used as shorthand for stategy policy
function or financial decision)
Policy Title CCF 13_Review community facilities
 
The aim, objective,purpose and intended out come of policy
Under this option, community facility provision would be reviewed with up
to seven centres transferred to community ownership or closed. Those in
scope are: • Bonhill Community Centre (Ladyton) • Napier Hall • Bowling
Hall • Glenhead Community Centre • Skypoint Community Centre •
Clydebank East Community Centre • West Dunbartonshire Activity Centre
(Brucehill) This option would result in an overall generated of saving of over
£450,000 – part of the figure is from reduction in West Dunbartonshire
Leisure Trust staffing with a total saving for the Council of £257,700. There
is also a potential to achieve capital receipts from sales of the buildings,
totalling £2,415,000. A further £987,694 could be saved as a result of non-
capital condition survey works programmed not progressing.
 
 
Service/Partners/Stakeholders/service users involved in the
development and/or implementation of policy.
Amanda Graham in partnership with WDLT which operates the buildings on
the council's behalf as part of the SLA and in line with the management fee
transferred to the trust. Assets would have a lead role in any proposal to
transfer the properties or dispose of properties
Does the proposals involve the procurement of any goods or
services? Yes
If yes please confirm that you have contacted our
procurement services to discuss your requirements. No
SCREENING
You must indicate if there is any relevance to the four areas
Duty to eliminate discrimination (E), advance equal
opportunities (A) or foster good relations (F) Yes
Relevance to Human Rights (HR) Yes
Relevance to Health Impacts (H) Yes
Relevance to Social Economic Impacts (SE) Yes
Who will be affected by this policy?
Staff, community groups and citizens
Who will be/has been involved in the consultation process?
Assets, WDLT, consultation was undertaken in 2018 as part of a review of the community
facilities at that point. In the event of community assets transfer a range of groups would be
involved with a view to identifying a suitable group to manage the facility
Please outline any particular need/barriers which equality groups may have in
relation to this policy list evidence you are using to support this and whether there is
any negative impact on particular groups.

Page 106

Needs Evidence Impact
Age
The Council must
not discriminate in
the way it provides
services
Older people are
more likely to be
more reliant on
services provided in
their
neighbourhoods.
Children and parents
may be more likely
to use some sites.
If no alternative
provision was found
this could have a
negative impact on
some age groups.
Cross Cutting
Access to
community facilities
that support a range
of activities can have
a positive impact on
the socio
determinants of
health and wellbeing
as well as forging
community
cohesion.
Community facilities
can provide for the
health, welfare,
social, educational,
spiritual,
recreational, leisure
and cultural needs of
the community, and
play an important
role in the
development of
vibrant
neighbourhoods by
creating a sense of
place and providing
opportunities for
people to meet and
interact socially.
If no alternative
provision was found
this could have a
negative impact on
reducing the socio
determinants of
poor health and
increasing
community
cohesion.
Disability
The Council has a
legal duty to make
its services
accessible to
disabled people, this
is both proactively
and also requires
reasonable
adjustments.
Disabled people are
more likely to be
more reliant on
services provided in
their
neighbourhoods.
If no alternative
provision was found
this could have a
negative impact on
some disability
groups.
Social & Economic
Impact
The Council needs to
have regard to the
Fairer Scotland Duty
in terms of strategic
decision including
on how services are
delivered. The
Council views
tackling poverty and
deprivation as a
major concern and
mitigating the
impacts of these as
much as possible.
Any reduction in
facilities within
neighbourhoods
could limit access to
groups and activities
particularly for
those experiencing
deprivation
If no alternative
provision was found
this could have a
negative impact on
low-income groups.
Sex The Council needs
have due regard to
Women provide the
vast majority of child
Groups may need to
find alternative

Page 107

the Public Sector
Equaity Duty
care. Toddlers group
for example may use
some facilities
venues locally
Gender Reassign
Health
The Council has
made a commitment
to improve health
and wellbeing
through the strategic
plan.
Community groups
utilising the centres
offer activity to
support the
wellbeing of
individuals
If no alternative
provision was found
this could have a
negative impact on
improving health
and wellbeing.
Human Rights
Marriage & Civil
Partnership
Pregnancy &
Maternity
Race
Religion and Belief
Sexual Orientation
Actions
Policy has a negative impact on an equality group,but is still to be implemented,
please provide justification for this.
The area currently, per head of the population, has access to a significant number of facilities
and in relation to the Council owned centres, these are not fully utilised. Opportunity exists
to rationalise the estate and maximise the use of community facilities. There are
opportunities for community asset transfer to retain the facilities under alternative
providers and also to engage and support groups to source alternative space to maintain
provision in their neighbourhood.
Will the impact of the policy be monitored and reported on an ongoing bases?
Q7 What is you recommendation for this policy?
Please provide a meaningful summary of how you have reached the recommendation
EIA 634 highlights potential impact on grounds of age, race, disability or socio-economic.
The previous consultation in 2018 indicates an appetite for community asset transfer and
through this it would be possible to maintain access and provision for groups and
individuals. Where this was not possible, the Council would work with impacted groups to
secure alternative accommodation as it did during Covid, to mitigate impact.

Page 108

AssessmentNo 636 Owner ajgraham
Resource Transformation Service/Establishment Budget CCF
 
First Name Surname Job title
Head Officer Amanda Graham Chief Officer - CCF
(include job titles/organisation)
Members Amanda Graham
 
(Please note: the word 'policy' is used as shorthand for stategy policy
function or financial decision)
Policy Title CCF_03 WDLT efficiencies
 
The aim, objective,purpose and intended out come of policy
The Council currently provides an annual management fee to WDLT for the
strategic and operational management of its Sport and Leisure Facilities,
Community Facilities, Sports Development, Active Schools, Outdoor
Recreation facilities and for event delivery. In 2022/23 the fee was £4.16m.
Under this option, the management fee would be reduced, and/or the Council
would not meet the increase in utility charges for this year. The fee reduction
would be a set percentage, which for illustration purposes would equate to •
10% reduction - £416,107 • 7.5% reduction - £312,080 • 5% reduction -
£208,053 The Trust’s current utilities bill is £983,000 and it is projected this
could be up to £500,000 more in 23/24. The Council would not pay the
increase.
 
 
Service/Partners/Stakeholders/service users involved in the
development and/or implementation of policy.
CCF, WDLT
Does the proposals involve the procurement of any goods or
services? Yes
If yes please confirm that you have contacted our
procurement services to discuss your requirements. Yes
SCREENING
You must indicate if there is any relevance to the four areas
Duty to eliminate discrimination (E), advance equal
opportunities (A) or foster good relations (F) Yes
Relevance to Human Rights (HR) Yes
Relevance to Health Impacts (H) Yes
Relevance to Social Economic Impacts (SE) Yes
Who will be affected by this policy?
WDLT and potentially services users
Who will be/has been involved in the consultation process?
Discussion with WDLT
Please outline any particular need/barriers which equality groups may have in relation
to this policy list evidence you are using to support this and whether there is any
negative impact on particular groups.
 
Needs Evidence Impact
Age
The Council and
WDLT, as it provides
services for us,
In determining
options for
addressing any
Funding options to
be assessed by
WDLT in terms of

Page 109

needs to comply
with Public Sector
Equality Duty
funding gaps WDLT
should considered
relevant evidence
for the areas listed
below
how they might
impact services
Cross Cutting
We need to be aware
of how the factors
above interact for
communities and
individuals
The factors above do
interact. In terms of
equality groups and
factors above. EIAs
carried out on WDLT
services can be used
to inform future
EIAs
Funding options to
be assessed by
WDLT in terms of
how they might
interact to impact
services
Disability As above As above As above
Social & Economic
Impact
We need to take into
account the Fairer
Scotland Duty when
making Strategic
funding decisions.
WDLT will have to
look at economies or
other means to fill
the funding gap
Funding options to
be assessed by
WDLT in terms of
how they might
impact services
Sex As above As above As above
Gender Reassign As above As above As above
Health
The Council
Strategic Plan has
focus on Health and
Well Being.
The SLA in place
Funding options to
be assessed by
WDLT in terms of
how they might
impact services
Human Rights
The Council is a duty
bearer in terms of
the European
Convention on
Human Rights, this
extends to WDLT as
they provide public
services on our
behalf
Human Rights
considerations cross
cut with equalities
Funding options to
be assessed by
WDLT in terms of
how they might
impact services
Marriage & Civil
Partnership As above As above As above
Pregnancy &
Maternity As above As above As above
Race As above As above As above
Religion and Belief As above As above As above
Sexual Orientation As above As above As above
Actions
Policy has a negative impact on an equality group,but is still to be implemented, please
provide justification for this.
Will the impact of the policy be monitored and reported on an ongoing bases?
Q7 What is you recommendation for this policy?
Intoduce

Page 110

Please provide a meaningful summary of how you have reached the recommendation
EIA 636 - The option would see the management fee to the leisure trust reduce however it
would then be for the Trust to decide how to manage this reduction in funding. The impact is
not yet clear however the Council has an SLA with the Trust for the delivery of core services.
Any change by the Trust which impacted on this would require to be negotiated and agreed
with the Council.

Page 111

AssessmentNo 637 Owner ajgraham
Resource Transformation Service/Establishment Budget CCF
 
First Name Surname Job title
Head Officer Amanda Graham Chief Officer - CCF
(include job titles/organisation)
Members Amanda Graham
 
(Please note: the word 'policy' is used as shorthand for stategy policy
function or financial decision)
Policy Title CCF-09 Clydebank Town Hall opening hours
 
The aim, objective,purpose and intended out come of policy
The Town Hall is currently open to the public five days a week. Post Covid,
plans are being developed to address the low visitor numbers but in light of the
high operational costs of the building there is opportunity to consider reducing
opening hours. Option 1 Under this option, the Town Hall would continue to
operate on four days. The building would open on additional days as required
to support pre-booked events. A review of usage and bookings would be
undertaken to ascertain the most appropriate days for opening and closure.
Access for elected members and support staff would be maintained on four
week days. Option 2 Under this option, the Town Hall would operate over three
days. The building would continue to open on additional days as required to
support pre-booked events as the cost would be mitigated by the income
generated. Access for elected members and support staff would be maintained
on three week days
 
 
Service/Partners/Stakeholders/service users involved in the
development and/or implementation of policy.
CCF
Does the proposals involve the procurement of any goods or
services? Yes
If yes please confirm that you have contacted our
procurement services to discuss your requirements. No
SCREENING
You must indicate if there is any relevance to the four areas
Duty to eliminate discrimination (E), advance equal
opportunities (A) or foster good relations (F) Yes
Relevance to Human Rights (HR) No
Relevance to Health Impacts (H) No
Relevance to Social Economic Impacts (SE) Yes
Who will be affected by this policy?
Staff, visitors
Who will be/has been involved in the consultation process?
Staff
Please outline any particular need/barriers which equality groups may have in relation
to this policy list evidence you are using to support this and whether there is any
negative impact on particular groups.
 
Needs Evidence Impact
Age Accessible Older people are less Identifying a

Page 112

community spaces
contribute to
community cohesion
like to be digitally
included
sustainable path in
terms of opening
hours for the town
hall would be a
positive impact
Cross Cutting
Accessible
community spaces
contribute to
community cohesion
Any changes to
opening hours needs
to be clearly
communicated to
members of the
public
Sharing spaces and
social contact can
help foster good
relations and
support community
cohesions
Any option adopted
needs to take these
factor into
consideration
Disability
Accessible
community spaces
contribute to
community cohesion
Some disabled
people are less likely
to be digitally
included Accessible
spaces are therefore
very important Feed
back from Deaf/BSL
users for example
has noted a
preference for this
venue for
engagement
Identifying a
sustainable path in
terms of opening
hours for the town
hall would be a
positive impact
Social & Economic
Impact
We need to consider
the impact of major
decisions in line
with the October
2021 Statutory
Guidance on the
Fairer Scotland Duty
There is the
possibility that
extended opening
hours may provide
extra income
Any option adopted
needs to take these
factor into
consideration
Sex
Gender Reassign
Health
Human Rights
Marriage & Civil
Partnership
Pregnancy &
Maternity
Race
Religion and Belief
Sexual Orientation
Actions
Policy has a negative impact on an equality group,but is still to be implemented, please
provide justification for this.
Will the impact of the policy be monitored and reported on an ongoing bases?

Page 113

Q7 What is you recommendation for this policy?
Please provide a meaningful summary of how you have reached the recommendation
EIA 637: There may be some small/minor potential positive impacts in terms of disability and
age from the proposal detailed in the EIA between opening 4 days compared to 3 days but these
are hard to assess. It is important however that a sustainable arrangement is found.

Page 114

AssessmentNo 640 Owner apriestman
Resource Transformation Service/Establishment Budget Resource
 
First Name Surname Job title
Head Officer Andi Priestman Shared Service Manager - Audit &Fraud
(include job titles/organisation)
Members Andi Priestman - Shared Service Manager - Audit &Fraud Laurence Slavin -
Chief Officer - Resources
 
(Please note: the word 'policy' is used as shorthand for stategy policy
function or financial decision)
Policy Title RES_01 Savings exercise 2023/24 - Audit &Fraud Provision
 
The aim, objective,purpose and intended out come of policy
The Audit &Fraud team has carried a vacant post since August 2019. The
team continues to achieve positive results despite this vacancy and
therefore this presents an opportunity to remove this post along with
vacant hours from the Audit &Fraud Structure. Due to more recent staff
changes being notified in 2023 around retirement and an expression of
interest to retire from the organisation at end of March 2024, there are
further opportunities to review existing posts within the current structure
and amend these to align with ongoing requirements to deliver a risk-based
audit and fraud plan. The work of the Audit &Fraud team is driven by an
annual plan which ensures that resources are focused on areas of higher
risk such as financial, legal/regulatory, reputational and operational risk.
The removal of the vacant hours/posts will not impact on the team's ability
to deliver the required level of assurance on the system of internal control
as higher risk areas will be prioritised. New risk-based audit methodology
has been implemented such that efficiencies will be achieved in the
planning, fieldwork and reporting stages of the team's work going forward.
The removal of the Grade 8 post within the fraud section will present career
progression opportunities for other team members.
 
 
Service/Partners/Stakeholders/service users involved in the
development and/or implementation of policy.
Shared Service Manager - Audit &Fraud Chief Officer - Resources
Does the proposals involve the procurement of any goods or
services? No
If yes please confirm that you have contacted our procurement
services to discuss your requirements. No
SCREENING
You must indicate if there is any relevance to the four areas
Duty to eliminate discrimination (E), advance equal
opportunities (A) or foster good relations (F) Yes
Relevance to Human Rights (HR) No
Relevance to Health Impacts (H) No
Relevance to Social Economic Impacts (SE) No
Who will be affected by this policy?
No direct implications on the team as they all undertake their own workload which is driven
by the areas of focus identified in the annual audit plan. A risk-based approach was
introduced in 2020/21 to ensure that resources are focused on areas of higher risk

Page 115

including financial, legal/regulatory, reputational and operational risks to ensure that the
work of the team aligns with the Council's risk management strategy. The purpose,
authority, responsibilities and scope are set out in the Internal Audit Charter and the work
of the team conforms with the Public Sector Internal Audit Standards.
Who will be/has been involved in the consultation process?
The Lead Internal Auditor and the Section Lead - Corporate Fraud will be consulted on the
construction of the risk-based annual plan to ensure that resources are aligned to areas of
higher risk including financial, legal/regulatory, reputational and operational risks. This will
ensure that the work of the team aligns with the Council's risk management strategy and
can provide an overall audit opinion on the system of internal control.
Please outline any particular need/barriers which equality groups may have in
relation to this policy list evidence you are using to support this and whether there is
any negative impact on particular groups.
 
Needs Evidence Impact
Age
Cross Cutting
We have looked at
how factors may
interact, see sections
1 and 2 of this
assessment,
including for
protected
characteristics
There is no
differential impact
on staff due to the
nature of changes, or
in terms of services
The removal of the
Grade 8 post within
the fraud section will
present career
progression
opportunities for
other team
members.
Disability
Social & Economic
Impact
Sex
Gender Reassign
Health
Human Rights
Marriage & Civil
Partnership
Pregnancy &
Maternity
Race
Religion and Belief
Sexual Orientation
Actions
Policy has a negative impact on an equality group,but is still to be implemented,
please provide justification for this.
Will the impact of the policy be monitored and reported on an ongoing bases?
Q7 What is you recommendation for this policy?
Intoduce
Please provide a meaningful summary of how you have reached the recommendation
EIA 640: There is no differential impact on staff due to the nature of changes, or in terms of
services. The removal of the Grade 8 post within the fraud section will present career
progression opportunities for other team members. There are no negative impacts
identified by this assessment.

Page 116

AssessmentNo 640 Owner apriestman
Resource Transformation Service/Establishment Budget Resource
 
First Name Surname Job title
Head Officer Andi Priestman Shared Service Manager - Audit &Fraud
(include job titles/organisation)
Members Andi Priestman - Shared Service Manager - Audit &Fraud Laurence Slavin -
Chief Officer - Resources
 
(Please note: the word 'policy' is used as shorthand for stategy policy
function or financial decision)
Policy Title RES_01 Savings exercise 2023/24 - Audit &Fraud Provision
 
The aim, objective,purpose and intended out come of policy
The Audit &Fraud team has carried a vacant post since August 2019. The
team continues to achieve positive results despite this vacancy and
therefore this presents an opportunity to remove this post along with
vacant hours from the Audit &Fraud Structure. Due to more recent staff
changes being notified in 2023 around retirement and an expression of
interest to retire from the organisation at end of March 2024, there are
further opportunities to review existing posts within the current structure
and amend these to align with ongoing requirements to deliver a risk-based
audit and fraud plan. The work of the Audit &Fraud team is driven by an
annual plan which ensures that resources are focused on areas of higher
risk such as financial, legal/regulatory, reputational and operational risk.
The removal of the vacant hours/posts will not impact on the team's ability
to deliver the required level of assurance on the system of internal control
as higher risk areas will be prioritised. New risk-based audit methodology
has been implemented such that efficiencies will be achieved in the
planning, fieldwork and reporting stages of the team's work going forward.
The removal of the Grade 8 post within the fraud section will present career
progression opportunities for other team members.
 
 
Service/Partners/Stakeholders/service users involved in the
development and/or implementation of policy.
Shared Service Manager - Audit &Fraud Chief Officer - Resources
Does the proposals involve the procurement of any goods or
services? No
If yes please confirm that you have contacted our procurement
services to discuss your requirements. No
SCREENING
You must indicate if there is any relevance to the four areas
Duty to eliminate discrimination (E), advance equal
opportunities (A) or foster good relations (F) Yes
Relevance to Human Rights (HR) No
Relevance to Health Impacts (H) No
Relevance to Social Economic Impacts (SE) No
Who will be affected by this policy?
No direct implications on the team as they all undertake their own workload which is driven
by the areas of focus identified in the annual audit plan. A risk-based approach was
introduced in 2020/21 to ensure that resources are focused on areas of higher risk

Page 117

including financial, legal/regulatory, reputational and operational risks to ensure that the
work of the team aligns with the Council's risk management strategy. The purpose,
authority, responsibilities and scope are set out in the Internal Audit Charter and the work
of the team conforms with the Public Sector Internal Audit Standards.
Who will be/has been involved in the consultation process?
The Lead Internal Auditor and the Section Lead - Corporate Fraud will be consulted on the
construction of the risk-based annual plan to ensure that resources are aligned to areas of
higher risk including financial, legal/regulatory, reputational and operational risks. This will
ensure that the work of the team aligns with the Council's risk management strategy and
can provide an overall audit opinion on the system of internal control.
Please outline any particular need/barriers which equality groups may have in
relation to this policy list evidence you are using to support this and whether there is
any negative impact on particular groups.
 
Needs Evidence Impact
Age
Cross Cutting
We have looked at
how factors may
interact, see sections
1 and 2 of this
assessment,
including for
protected
characteristics
There is no
differential impact
on staff due to the
nature of changes, or
in terms of services
The removal of the
Grade 8 post within
the fraud section will
present career
progression
opportunities for
other team
members.
Disability
Social & Economic
Impact
Sex
Gender Reassign
Health
Human Rights
Marriage & Civil
Partnership
Pregnancy &
Maternity
Race
Religion and Belief
Sexual Orientation
Actions
Policy has a negative impact on an equality group,but is still to be implemented,
please provide justification for this.
Will the impact of the policy be monitored and reported on an ongoing bases?
Q7 What is you recommendation for this policy?
Intoduce
Please provide a meaningful summary of how you have reached the recommendation
EIA 640: There is no differential impact on staff due to the nature of changes, or in terms of
services. The removal of the Grade 8 post within the fraud section will present career
progression opportunities for other team members. There are no negative impacts
identified by this assessment.

Page 118

AssessmentNo 641 Owner kshannon
Resource Transformation Service/Establishment Budget Resource
 
First Name Surname Job title
Head Officer Karen Shannon Section Head/Finance Business Partner
(include job titles/organisation)
Members
Karen Shannon-Section Head Finance, Administration
&Control/Finance Business Partner Lauren Slavin-Chief Officer-
Resources
 
(Please note: the word 'policy' is used as shorthand for stategy
policy function or financial decision)
Policy Title RES-10 Savings Option-Insurance Management
 
The aim, objective,purpose and intended out come of policy
Reduce insurance team by either a shared service with another
authority or shared team leader by expanding role of other Team
Leader within Finance. Review of service to be undertaken to review
what work will be done/stopped/ how service is delivered.
 
 
Service/Partners/Stakeholders/service users involved in the
development and/or implementation of policy.
Chief Officer Section Head/Finance Business Partner Finance Staff
within the Insurance Team
Does the proposals involve the procurement of any goods or
services? No
If yes please confirm that you have contacted our
procurement services to discuss your requirements. No
SCREENING
You must indicate if there is any relevance to the four areas
Duty to eliminate discrimination (E), advance equal
opportunities (A) or foster good relations (F) Yes
Relevance to Human Rights (HR) No
Relevance to Health Impacts (H) No
Relevance to Social Economic Impacts (SE) No
Who will be affected by this policy?
Team members Service departments within the wider Council
Who will be/has been involved in the consultation process?
Team members Service departments within the wider Council Wider finance staff
Please outline any particular need/barriers which equality groups may have in
relation to this policy list evidence you are using to support this and whether
there is any negative impact on particular groups.
 
Needs Evidence Impact
Age
The Council has a
duty of care towards
all of its workers,
and in terms of the
Public Sector
Equality Duty
Age profile of the
team
There is no specific
impact identified in
relation to age.
Cross Cutting

Page 119

Disability
Social & Economic
Impact
Sex
The Council has a
duty of care towards
all of its workers,
and in terms of the
Public Sector
Equality Duty
Profile of the team
If there are
reductions, because
of workforce
composition this will
fall on women rather
than men. Negative.
Any potential
reduction in staffing
requirements could
be managed through
SWITCH
redeployment
programme.
Additional support
will be available to
any employees
impacted by the
savings options to
ensure their health
and wellbeing.
Gender Reassign
Health
Human Rights
Marriage & Civil
Partnership
Pregnancy &
Maternity
Race
Religion and Belief
Sexual Orientation
Actions
Policy has a negative impact on an equality group,but is still to be implemented,
please provide justification for this.
Council has a statutory duty to provide a balanced budget. Any potential reduction in
staffing requirements could be managed through SWITCH redeployment programme.
Additional support will be available to any employees impacted by the savings options
to ensure their health and wellbeing.
Will the impact of the policy be monitored and reported on an ongoing bases?
Yes
Q7 What is you recommendation for this policy?
Intoduce
Please provide a meaningful summary of how you have reached the
recommendation
EIA 641 details the likely impact of the proposals. There is a negative impact on
females due to the composition of the team.

Page 120

AssessmentNo 643 Owner ajgraham
Resource Transformation Service/Establishment Budget CCF
 
First Name Surname Job title
Head Officer Amanda Graham Chief Officer - CCF
(include job titles/organisation)
Members Amanda Graham
 
(Please note: the word 'policy' is used as shorthand for stategy policy
function or financial decision)
Policy Title CCF06 Generate income from buildings
 
The aim, objective,purpose and intended out come of policy
Space in Council buildings is not being fully utilised post-pandemic and
opportunity exists to maximise use of our assets by sub-letting. The proposal is
to generate additional income by letting space within the publically accessible
area of Church Street; Bruce Street Baths and Clydebank Leisure Centre
 
 
Service/Partners/Stakeholders/service users involved in the
development and/or implementation of policy.
CCF, Assets, WDLT
Does the proposals involve the procurement of any goods or
services? No
If yes please confirm that you have contacted our
procurement services to discuss your requirements. No
SCREENING
You must indicate if there is any relevance to the four areas
Duty to eliminate discrimination (E), advance equal
opportunities (A) or foster good relations (F) No
Relevance to Human Rights (HR) No
Relevance to Health Impacts (H) No
Relevance to Social Economic Impacts (SE) No
Who will be affected by this policy?
Who will be/has been involved in the consultation process?
Please outline any particular need/barriers which equality groups may have in relation
to this policy list evidence you are using to support this and whether there is any
negative impact on particular groups.
 
Needs Evidence Impact
Age
Cross Cutting
Disability
Social & Economic
Impact
Sex
Gender Reassign
Health
Human Rights
Marriage & Civil

Page 121

Partnership
Pregnancy &
Maternity
Race
Religion and Belief
Sexual Orientation
Actions
Policy has a negative impact on an equality group,but is still to be implemented, please
provide justification for this.
Will the impact of the policy be monitored and reported on an ongoing bases?
Q7 What is you recommendation for this policy?
Please provide a meaningful summary of how you have reached the recommendation
EIA 643 is a proposal to maximise additional income generation opportunities using Council
buildings. The recommendation to introduce this policy has been made on the basis that there is
an anticipated positive impact generated. The assessment has not identified any potential for
discrimination or adverse impact.

Page 122

AssessmentNo 644 Owner kshannon
Resource Transformation Service/Establishment Budget Resource
 
First Name Surname Job title
Head Officer Laurence Slavin Chief Officer-Resources
(include job titles/organisation)
Members Adrian Gray - Finance Business Partner
 
(Please note: the word 'policy' is used as shorthand for stategy policy
function or financial decision)
Policy Title RES-03 Savings Option - Remove Elderly Welfare Grant Fund
 
The aim, objective,purpose and intended out come of policy
Remove the historic £15 per resident payment made annually through the
elderly grant fund to registered groups and individuals
 
 
Service/Partners/Stakeholders/service users involved in the
development and/or implementation of policy.
Finance team within WDC &ASU
Does the proposals involve the procurement of any goods or
services? No
If yes please confirm that you have contacted our
procurement services to discuss your requirements. No
SCREENING
You must indicate if there is any relevance to the four areas
Duty to eliminate discrimination (E), advance equal
opportunities (A) or foster good relations (F) Yes
Relevance to Human Rights (HR) No
Relevance to Health Impacts (H) No
Relevance to Social Economic Impacts (SE) Yes
Who will be affected by this policy?
Anyone currently receiving the payment from the Elderly Welfare Grant Fund
Who will be/has been involved in the consultation process?
This is part of the range of savings proposals being considered to bridge the challenging
financial gap the council faces over the next three years. Once approved by Council, it will be
communicated to all residents.
Please outline any particular need/barriers which equality groups may have in relation
to this policy list evidence you are using to support this and whether there is any
negative impact on particular groups.
 
Needs Evidence Impact
Age
No requirement to
provide this funding.
The Council budget
needs to have
regards to Best
Value
Considerations on
how money is spent
and its impact
The policy only
provides £15 per
annum for each
resident over the
specified age
Positive - the
removal of the grant
would remove
current inequality
for those under the
specified age. It is
acknowledged that
those under the
specified age may or
may not be just as

Page 123

vulnerable at those
over the specified
age but are not
eligible for the
payment. Negative -
Loss of £15 per
eligible resident if
the option to remove
is pursued.
Cross Cutting
Disability
Social & Economic
Impact
We need to have
regards to the Fairer
Scotland Duty
£15 is only a very
small proportion of
the annual income
for those over the
specified age and
would have a
negligable effect
Neutral
Sex
Gender Reassign
Health
Human Rights
Marriage & Civil
Partnership
Pregnancy &
Maternity
Race
Religion and Belief
Sexual Orientation
Actions
Policy has a negative impact on an equality group,but is still to be implemented, please
provide justification for this.
Council has a statutory duty to balance the budget
Will the impact of the policy be monitored and reported on an ongoing bases?
Yes
Q7 What is you recommendation for this policy?
Intoduce
Please provide a meaningful summary of how you have reached the recommendation
EIA 644: The removal of the grant would remove a current inequality where those under the
specified age may or may not be just as vulnerable as those over that age but are not eligible
for the payment. It is noted that £15 is only a very small proportion of the annual income for
those over the specified age and would have a negligable effect.

Page 124

AssessmentNo 645 Owner kshannon
Resource Transformation Service/Establishment Budget Resource
 
First Name Surname Job title
Head Officer Laurence Slavin Chief Officer-Resources
(include job titles/organisation)
Members Adrian Gray-Finance Business Partner Laurence Slavin-Chief Officer-Resources
 
(Please note: the word 'policy' is used as shorthand for stategy policy function or
financial decision)
Policy Title RES05 Savings Option-Remove Provost Hospitality Fund
 
The aim, objective,purpose and intended out come of policy
To remove the Provost Hospitality Fund, which is used for hospitality (food and
refreshments) at events hosted by the Provost and is also used to buy flowers for
anniversaries for couples within the community.
 
 
Service/Partners/Stakeholders/service users involved in the development
and/or implementation of policy.
Chief Officer Finance Business Partner Corporate Communications Team
Does the proposals involve the procurement of any goods or
services? No
If yes please confirm that you have contacted our procurement
services to discuss your requirements. No
SCREENING
You must indicate if there is any relevance to the four areas
Duty to eliminate discrimination (E), advance equal
opportunities (A) or foster good relations (F) No
Relevance to Human Rights (HR) No
Relevance to Health Impacts (H) No
Relevance to Social Economic Impacts (SE) No
Who will be affected by this policy?
Members of the community who attend an event hosted by the Provost or who would receive a
celebratory presentation on the event of an anniversary
Who will be/has been involved in the consultation process?
Finance Corporate Communications Team
Please outline any particular need/barriers which equality groups may have in relation to this
policy list evidence you are using to support this and whether there is any negative impact on
particular groups.
 
Needs Evidence Impact
Age
No requirement to
provide, flowers etc
for anniversaries
Relevant to couples
married for a long
time
Will not have any
significant negative
effect
Cross Cutting
Disability
Social & Economic
Impact
Sex
Gender Reassign
Health

Page 125

Human Rights
Marriage & Civil
Partnership
Pregnancy &
Maternity
Race
Religion and Belief
Sexual Orientation
The Council has a
long standing
commitment to
LGBT History month
The LGBT history
month is followed by
a short event.
Under the proposal
this event can still go
ahead with no
catering
Actions
Policy has a negative impact on an equality group,but is still to be implemented, please
provide justification for this.
Will the impact of the policy be monitored and reported on an ongoing bases?
Q7 What is you recommendation for this policy?
Please provide a meaningful summary of how you have reached the recommendation
EIA 645 has been screened and is not relevant, it does not disadvantage any member of the
community.

Page 126

AssessmentNo 646 Owner dmain
Resource Transformation Service/Establishment Budget CCF
 
First Name Surname Job title
Head Officer Amanda Graham Chief Officer
(include job titles/organisation)
Members Stephen Daly - Citizen Services David Main - Library Services
 
(Please note: the word 'policy' is used as shorthand for stategy policy
function or financial decision)
Policy Title CCF 01 Budget options - Co-location of library services
 
The aim, objective,purpose and intended out come of policy
Under this option, some library branches would be co-located with other
Council venues, such as community centres or schools. Rather than close,
library provision would be retained for the benefit of the community, with
savings generated from repairs, maintenance and running costs at the
current library sites.
 
 
Service/Partners/Stakeholders/service users involved in the
development and/or implementation of policy.
Library Services
Does the proposals involve the procurement of any goods or
services? No
If yes please confirm that you have contacted our
procurement services to discuss your requirements. No
SCREENING
You must indicate if there is any relevance to the four areas
Duty to eliminate discrimination (E), advance equal
opportunities (A) or foster good relations (F) Yes
Relevance to Human Rights (HR) No
Relevance to Health Impacts (H) Yes
Relevance to Social Economic Impacts (SE) Yes
Who will be affected by this policy?
West Dunbartonshire Council residents/library users
Who will be/has been involved in the consultation process?
Library Services
Please outline any particular need/barriers which equality groups may have in
relation to this policy list evidence you are using to support this and whether there is
any negative impact on particular groups.
 
Needs Evidence Impact
Age
The Council must
not discriminate in
the way it provided
services.
Older people are
more likely to
experience mobility
issues and social
isolation.
A change in location
may introduce new
barriers to access
(such as roads to
cross, steps etc).
Such changes are
likely to negatively
impact older people.
Cross Cutting It is important that A separate proposed A change in location

Page 127

the Council takes
account of how
factors might
interact.
reduction in library
opening hours
(CCF18) may further
reduce access to
library services.
and opening hours
may present new
barriers to access
(e.g. bus timetables
and stop locations).
Disability
The council has a
legal duty to make
its services
accessible to
disabled people, this
is both proactively
('Anticipatory') and
also requires
Reasonable
Adjustments.
People with mobility
issues may
experience barriers
to accessing Council
services located in
unsuitable buildings.
Any change in
library location may
introduce new
physical barriers to
access and these
would likely further
negatively impact
those with mobility
issues.
Social & Economic
Impact
The Council has a
focus on reducing
poverty.
Library services
seek to combat
many issues
associated with
poverty and the
cost-of-living,
including offering
free internet access,
free reading
material, free and
welcoming warm
spaces, free
community support
and free educational
activities.
A change in location
may reduce the
space available to
deliver library
services (such as
fewer PCs, space for
groups to meet etc).
These will most
likely further
negatively impact
those who are
already socially
excluded and
experiencing
hardship.
Sex
Gender Reassign
Health
Health and
wellbeing is focus
area in the Council's
Strategic Plan.
Reading is proven to
contribute to
positive mental
health. Libraries also
act as an information
and collection point
for some community
health services.
Change of locations
may limit the space
available for
community support
groups to meet,
health information
to be displayed etc.
Reductions to the
library offer may
contribute to
adverse mental
health issues for
some service users.
Human Rights
Marriage & Civil
Partnership
Pregnancy &
Maternity
Race
The Council must
not discriminate in
the way it provided
People who do not
speak English well
may experience
Any reduction to
local signposting to
sources of support

Page 128

services. barriers to accessing
support.
will likely negatively
impact those who do
not speak English as
a first language.
Requiring users to
access services
online will likely
introduce new
barriers to this
group.
Religion and Belief
Sexual Orientation
Actions
Policy has a negative impact on an equality group,but is still to be implemented,
please provide justification for this.
The proposal would result in the Council owning less buildings with associated reduced
costs in utilities, rates, maintenance. The proposal would safeguard library provision in the
local area and maximise use of existing Council venues. Although potentially viewed as a
denigration of service, avoiding closure means residents can still access vital library and
community services. The proposal would not impact on the employee headcount.
Will the impact of the policy be monitored and reported on an ongoing bases?
Yes
Q7 What is you recommendation for this policy?
Intoduce
Please provide a meaningful summary of how you have reached the recommendation
EIA 646 details potential impacts for older people, disabled people and for those
experiencing social isolation and/or hardship from poverty. While the proposed change
may introduce new barriers to access, this proposal seeks to continue to offer library
services in the local area. Full consideration of any barriers to access will be undertaken at
the time of producing final designs, which will include mitigation measures wherever
possible.

Page 129

AssessmentNo 648 Owner sbrooks
Resource
Regeneration,
Environment
and Growth
Service/Establishment HE Budget
 
First Name Surname Job title
Head Officer Stephen Brooks Working4U Manager
(include job titles/organisation)
Members Peter Barry Chief Officer Housing and Employability
 
(Please note: the word 'policy' is used as shorthand for stategy policy function
or financial decision)
Policy Title HE07 Assessment of impact reduction to W4U of 5%, 13% or 25%
 
The aim, objective,purpose and intended out come of policy
Consider the impact on services as a result of reduction in budget and associated
loss of staff approximate (5%, 13% or 25% FTEs)
 
 
Service/Partners/Stakeholders/service users involved in the development
and/or implementation of policy.
Elected Members, Senior WDC Staff, senior W4U staff
Does the proposals involve the procurement of any goods or
services? Yes
If yes please confirm that you have contacted our
procurement services to discuss your requirements. No
SCREENING
You must indicate if there is any relevance to the four areas
Duty to eliminate discrimination (E), advance equal
opportunities (A) or foster good relations (F) Yes
Relevance to Human Rights (HR) Yes
Relevance to Health Impacts (H) No
Relevance to Social Economic Impacts (SE) Yes
Who will be affected by this policy?
Staff, service users Working 4U seeks to address the underlying causes of poverty, as well as the
symptoms, by specifically tackling unemployment, providing opportunities to increase levels of
education, skills, confidence and personal development as well support to claim in and out of work
benefits and manage debt. The specialist components of Working 4U’s services are: Learning and
Development that supports disadvantaged or vulnerable groups and individuals of all ages to
engage in learning. This covers a range of activity, such as youth work, family and adult learning,
including adult literacy and English for Speakers of Other languages (ESOL) and community
development and capacity building. Working 4U’s focus is on youth work and family and adult
learning. Employability encompasses all the things that enable people to improve their quality of
life by increasing their chances of getting a job, staying in a job, and progressing further in work.
The focus of our work is placed on supporting those that are facing the most intense levels of
disadvantage, including families most likely to be affected by child poverty, young people, older
workers, long-term unemployed and people from equalities groups. Benefit /debt Information and
Advice National standards state that all debt counselling, income maximisation support, money
advice and welfare benefit advice services service providers must be committed to providing
equity of access to services for all. We provide a service that is open to all; however, given the
socio/economic circumstances we prioritise people who are most vulnerable to disadvantage. In
our service delivery we will place emphasis on supporting people facing difficult life transitions,

Page 130

including, for example: • Those with life limiting conditions; • People affected by mental health
issues; • Those affected by drug and alcohol mis-use; • Those affected by housing and
homelessness • Newly unemployed and retired. In addition, we place emphasis on supporting
families with children who are more susceptible to poverty and disadvantage, including families
with children: • where the mother is under 25 years of age; • larger families; • minority ethnic
households; • lone parent families; • families with children under 1 year old. • Families and
children with experience of the care system; • Children with caring responsibilities; and • Those
living in areas of high material deprivation.
Who will be/has been involved in the consultation process?
Consultation has been carried out in the context of the budget review. This has included
consultation among Elected Members, senior Council staff and managers at Working4U.
Please outline any particular need/barriers which equality groups may have in relation to
this policy list evidence you are using to support this and whether there is any negative
impact on particular groups.
 
Needs Evidence Impact
Age Child poverty is
focus for the Council
High child poverty in
WDC 18-30 year
olds are
experiencing
particular economic
strain
Reduced provision
may result in
negative impacts for
children and young
people
Cross Cutting
Working4U seeks to
improve the quality
of lives for people
from disadvantaged
backgrounds who
are most likely to be
affected by
inequality, poverty
and disadvantage
which is driven by
structural or
institutional factors.
These factors
include: • Income
from social security
and benefits in kind,
influenced by: o
design and
generosity of
welfare benefits; o
benefit sanctions
and recovery of
advance payments; o
hardship payments
and third-party
debts; o barriers to
accessing financial
support (including
child maintenance).
• Income from
employment,
influenced by the
The key drivers of
poverty identified in
the legislation
include income
levels and the cost of
living. Income is
determined, to an
extent, by levels of
economic activity
and employment.
While there are
many sources of
labour market
information,
examples provided
by NOMIS (Office for
National Statistics
Labour Market
Profile - Nomis -
Official Census and
Labour Market
Statistics
(nomisweb.co.uk))
will illustrate West
Dunbartonshire’s
comparative labour
market profile to
suggest the need for
targeted
employability
support.
Employment and
There are three
options for
consideration. These
options complement
previous savings on
service provision
and focus on staff
costs. • Option 1
Reducing internal
staff costs by 8%
with estimated loss
of 4.5ftes
(approximately 5%
of Working4U total
staff); • Option 2
Reducing internal
costs by 25%
affecting
approximately
13ftes
(approximately 13%
of W4U staff); •
Option 3: Reducing
internal staff costs
by 50% affecting
approximately
25ftes (25% of
working4U staff).
The value of staff
costs that are funded
through the
Council’s core

Page 131

availability of jobs,
hours and the level
of earnings, and
barriers to taking up
that work, such as
childcare
responsibilities; plus
qualifications and
skills, which can
influence both
contemporary and
future child poverty.
• Costs of living,
including housing,
food and fuel costs,
the poverty
premium, the costs
of the school day,
and the extra,
unavoidable costs of
disability or living in
a rural area. We
provide support
because: • People
don’t always claim
the benefits they are
entitled to; • The
benefits system is
difficult to
understand; •
Navigating the
process without
assistance can lead
to errors; • Appeals
without help can
lead to wrong
decisions; •
Understanding
welfare reform is
difficult. • People
face physical and
psychological
barriers to
employment and
learning
opportunities
because of personal
circumstances and
professional support
will help people to
overcome these
barriers. • Its
difficult to maintain
Economic Activity:
West
Dunbartonshire has
a comparatively
higher rate of
economic inactivity
with 26.2% of the
16-64 years age
group in
employment. The
comparative figure
for Scotland is
23.8% and Great
Britain’s figure is
21.6%. At 19%, West
Dunbartonshire has
a higher proportion
of workless
households than
both Scotland
(18.1%) and Great
Britain (13.6%). Of
those in
employment, there
is a higher
proportion in West
Dunbartonshire
reliant on part-time
work (35.5%). This
is higher than the
figure for Scotland
(33.2%) and Great
Britain (32.1%). A
review of the NOMIS
statistics reveals
that the job density
in West
Dunbartonshire is
estimated at 0.61;
this is much lower
than the figure for
Glasgow (1.04);
Scotland (0.80) and
Great Britain (0.84).
In effect, although
there are
comparatively
higher numbers of
people out of work,
there are also
comparatively fewer
opportunities
available in West
budget is
approximately
£2.29m. Reduction
of Working4U
service by 8% will
have a value of
£183,351. This will
affect approximately
4.5 members of staff
all of whom will, by
necessity of our
funding sources,
come from either
our Community
Learning and
Development team
or our welfare
benefits/debt team
or a combination of
both. This will have
an impact on both
team’s ability to
meet growing
demand for their
services and will
create further
challenges for the
teams. This is
particularly the case
for
benefit/advice/debt
team who are
experiencing higher
levels of demand
from increasing
numbers of people
with a growing
complexity of
concerns related to
the cost of living
crisis. A reduction of
4.5 ftes in
Community
Learning will be the
equivalent of a 20%
reduction of the
team (youth/adult
literacies, youth
diversionary
activities, summer
programmes). The
result will be a
decrease in adult

Page 132

jobsearch
momentum and
participating in
learning without
professional, expert
support.
Dunbartonshire.
Addressing
unemployment and
underemployment is
consistent with
addressing the
income drivers of
poverty and will
therefore feature
extensively in our
approach to
addressing child
poverty. Benefits
The number of
people in receipt of
out of work benefits
is a contributory
factor to the level of
child poverty. In
West
Dunbartonshire
4.5% of the
population in the 16-
64 years group is in
receipt of out of
work benefits. This
is higher than the
average in Scotland
(3.2%) and Great
Britain (3.8%) and
represents 2,525
people. 18.4% of
households in West
Dunbartonshire are
in receipt of the
main benefits. This
compares
unfavourably with
the figure for
Scotland (13%) and
Great Britain (11%) .
In effect,
comparatively more
people in West
Dunbartonshire rely
on benefits for their
income. Maximising
their entitlement
will feature strongly
in our approach to
maximising income
literacy support and
youth diversionary
activities, school
holiday programmes
and youth
representation. This
savings option will
place more pressure
on schools, police
and other services to
address the absence
of these services.
The teams have
contributed to 993
people entering
education or
training; and 457
people gaining a
qualification. 20%
reduction will lead
to fewer people
securing access to
learning
opportunities (200
fewer); and 90 fewer
people securing a
qualification. Option
2: Reducing internal
staff costs by 25%
Reduction of
Working4U service
internal staff costs
will generate a
potential saving
value of £572,971.
This will affect 13
FTE. The majority of
whom will, by
necessity of our
funding sources,
come from either
our Community
Learning and
Development Team
or our Welfare
Benefits/Debt Team
or a combination of
both. The effect of
this level of saving
on both welfare
rights and
community learning
would be significant.

Page 133

13fte is equivalent to
50% of the staff in
each team. This
represents a
substantial
reduction in the
teams’ activity and
will have a
significant impact on
the lives of those
people that W4U
targets for support.
For example, this
would lead to a
reduction of income
generated for the
most disadvantage
in West
Dunbartonshire by
£5.4million each
year. The number
gaining
qualifications would
be reduced 342
people and the
number entering
education and/or
training would
reduce by 342
people. Option 3:
Reduction of
Working4U service
internal staff costs
will generate a
potential saving
value of £1.14m.
This will affect 25
FTE. The effect of
this level of saving
on both welfare
rights and
community learning
would be substantial
and will leave them
unable to maintain
the service in a way
that meets growing
demand. 25fte is
equivalent to 50% of
the staff in both
teams. This
represents a
substantial

Page 134

reduction in the
teams’ activity and
will have a
significant impact on
the lives of those
people that W4U
targets for support.
The result will be a
substantial loss in
the benefit income
generated for
disadvantaged
residents, fewer
people having access
to debt counselling
and potential
increase in
consumer debts and
council tax/rent
arrears. Fewer
people will have
access to learning
support and, as a
result, will miss out
on opportunities to
improve their lives
and the lives of their
families. Sharing the
reduction between
both teams will
reduce the impact.
However in both
cases it will have a
significant impact on
the teams ‘ability to
maintain the current
level of service
provision at a time
when demand from
the most
disadvantaged
people in West
Dunbartonshire is
intensifying.
Disability
Our child poverty
report notes
disabled people as
priority group
Disabled people and
those living in a
household with a
disabled person are
more likely to be
income deprived
Reduced provision
may affect efforts to
reduce poverty for
this group
Social & Economic
Impact
Reducing child
poverty is a focus for
the council
Groups noted above
may be especially
vulnerable, as well
Reduced provision
may result in
reduced ability to

Page 135

as other with low
incomes
tackle economic and
financial inequality
Sex
Our child poverty
report notes women
people as priority
group
Women comprise
90% of single
parents who are
more likely to be
income deprived
Reduced provision
may affect women
disproportionately
compared to men
Gender Reassign
Health
Human Rights
Human Rights Act;
For example Article
8 family life UNCRC
(Best practice)
The work of W4U
supports elements of
human rights
Reduced provision
may negatively
affect the fulfillment
of rights
Marriage & Civil
Partnership
Pregnancy &
Maternity Cross cuts with sex Cross cuts with sex Cross cuts with Sex
Race
Our child poverty
report notes people
from BME groups as
a priority group
People from BME
groups more likely
to me more income
deprived
Reduced provision
may affect efforts to
reduce poverty for
this group
Religion and Belief
Sexual Orientation
Actions
Policy has a negative impact on an equality group,but is still to be implemented, please
provide justification for this.
The options have been generated as a contribution to the discussions about budget reductions
within Working4U in order to assist the Council to manage its budget deficit. The options will
result in a reduction in staff numbers of around in option 1: 4.ftes; option 2: 13 ftes; Option 3: 25
ftes.
Will the impact of the policy be monitored and reported on an ongoing bases?
Working4U has a monitoring framework for reporting output and impacts of its activities. This
includes key performance indicators illustrating the statistics for the number of people supported
and the outcome of that support. This will provide information that will determine how funding
resources are deployed.
Q7 What is you recommendation for this policy?
Modify
Please provide a meaningful summary of how you have reached the recommendation
Assessment 648 provides information about the impact of a budget reduction of 8% and 25% for
Working4U. The information will be used as part of the option assessment. A 25% reduction will
have a substantial impact on service provision affecting the most vulnerable households in West
Dunbartonshire. While an 8% reduction has less of an impact it should be considered in light of
changes within other funding sources that Working4U currently has available. Reductions in
European Funding and No One Left Behind Funding, which have yet to be decided, will have a
further negative impact beyond the savings required by the Council. Reductions show potential
negative impacts for some groups in particular women, disabled people, children people from BME
Groups.

Page 136

AssessmentNo 653 Owner GMacfarlane2
Resource
Regeneration,
Environment
and Growth
Service/Establishment Budget R and N
 
First Name Surname Job title
Head Officer Gail Macfarlane Chief Officer - Roads &Neighbourhood
(include job titles/organisation)
Members Roads Services
 
(Please note: the word 'policy' is used as shorthand for stategy policy function or
financial decision)
Policy Title R&N16 Roads review of activities to support education
 
The aim, objective,purpose and intended out come of policy
The Review of roads support for education services
 
 
Service/Partners/Stakeholders/service users involved in the development and/or
implementation of policy.
Roads and Education Services
Does the proposals involve the procurement of any goods or
services? Yes
If yes please confirm that you have contacted our procurement
services to discuss your requirements. No
SCREENING
You must indicate if there is any relevance to the four areas
Duty to eliminate discrimination (E), advance equal opportunities
(A) or foster good relations (F) No
Relevance to Human Rights (HR) No
Relevance to Health Impacts (H) Yes
Relevance to Social Economic Impacts (SE) Yes
Who will be affected by this policy?
Pupils engaged with through the activities provided at school by Roads officers in an education
environment.
Who will be/has been involved in the consultation process?
Education services
Please outline any particular need/barriers which equality groups may have in relation to this
policy list evidence you are using to support this and whether there is any negative impact on
particular groups.
 
Needs Evidence Impact
Age
Reduce cycle and
walking Education
for school age
children
Roads officers
support education
services with safe
walking and cycling.
this will cease.
May reduce number
of pupils with
necessary road skills
to safely travel to
school
Cross Cutting
Disability
Social & Economic
Impact
Sex

Page 137

Gender Reassign
Health
Reduced Support
and education of
safe cycling and
walking
Encouraging
children to walk and
cycle Supports a
healthy lifestyle
Less encouragement
for children to walk
to school
Human Rights
Marriage & Civil
Partnership
Pregnancy &
Maternity
Race
Religion and Belief
Sexual Orientation
Actions
Policy has a negative impact on an equality group,but is still to be implemented, please provide
justification for this.
Proposal has a negative effect on pupils in an education environment with a reduction in walking and
cycling training. Education services has responsibility for developing a safe routes to school plan and
outcomes from that plan will be developed and delivered in partnership with the roads service
Will the impact of the policy be monitored and reported on an ongoing bases?
Liaison will be carried out with education services
Q7 What is you recommendation for this policy?
Please provide a meaningful summary of how you have reached the recommendation
EIA 653; Proposal may have a negative effect on pupils in an education environment with a reduction in
walking and cycling training. Education services has responsibility for developing a safe routes to school
plan and outcomes from that plan

Page 138

AssessmentNo 654 Owner rrea
Resource Transformation Service/Establishment Budget Resource
 
First Name Surname Job title
Head Officer Laurence Slavin Head of Finance
(include job titles/organisation)
Members Richard Butler Ryan Chalmers, Section Head revenues and Benefits
 
(Please note: the word 'policy' is used as shorthand for stategy policy function
or financial decision)
Policy Title RES -11 Invoicing Automation (Debtors and Creditors)
 
The aim, objective,purpose and intended out come of policy
The Council currently issues debtor and creditor invoices to residents and
business for services received by the Council manually in Agresso via the Central
Admin Support (CAS) team. Under this proposal, invoices would be issued via an
automated system. Automation would deliver efficiencies in a number of services
including Commercial Waste, Greenspace, Bereavement Services, Roads, Sold
Property and Education - Lets and Early Years. The main potential for efficiency
of creditor invoices is within Building Services process.
 
 
Service/Partners/Stakeholders/service users involved in the development
and/or implementation of policy.
Successful delivery of this saving proposal will require engagement/consultation
with residents/businesses.
Does the proposals involve the procurement of any goods or
services? No
If yes please confirm that you have contacted our
procurement services to discuss your requirements. No
SCREENING
You must indicate if there is any relevance to the four areas
Duty to eliminate discrimination (E), advance equal
opportunities (A) or foster good relations (F) Yes
Relevance to Human Rights (HR) No
Relevance to Health Impacts (H) No
Relevance to Social Economic Impacts (SE) No
Who will be affected by this policy?
There will also be an impact on service users who would no longer be dealing with people
directly involved in the service and queries would need to be raised with the Council’s Contact
Centre.
Who will be/has been involved in the consultation process?
Please outline any particular need/barriers which equality groups may have in relation to
this policy list evidence you are using to support this and whether there is any negative
impact on particular groups.
 
Needs Evidence Impact
Age
Cross Cutting
Disability
Social & Economic

Page 139

Impact
Sex
Gender Reassign
Health
Human Rights
Marriage & Civil
Partnership
Pregnancy &
Maternity
Race
Religion and Belief
Sexual Orientation
Actions
Policy has a negative impact on an equality group,but is still to be implemented, please
provide justification for this.
Will the impact of the policy be monitored and reported on an ongoing bases?
Q7 What is you recommendation for this policy?
Intoduce
Please provide a meaningful summary of how you have reached the recommendation
Screening 654: This proposal has not been screened as service users will see no changes, and
there will no effect on staff.

Page 140

AssessmentNo 655 Owner jokerr
Resource
Regeneration,
Environment
and Growth
Service/Establishment HE Budget
 
First Name Surname Job title
Head Officer John Kerr Housing Development and Homelessness Manager
(include job titles/organisation)
Members John Kerr Peter Barry Janice Rainey Michelle Lynn
 
(Please note: the word 'policy' is used as shorthand for stategy policy function or
financial decision)
Policy Title H&E12 Mitchell Way Office Rent Review
 
The aim, objective,purpose and intended out come of policy
Savings Option to review location of staff and the ongoing usage of Mitchell Way only
for staff funded from the HRA
 
 
Service/Partners/Stakeholders/service users involved in the development
and/or implementation of policy.
All within team above
Does the proposals involve the procurement of any goods or
services? No
If yes please confirm that you have contacted our procurement
services to discuss your requirements. No
SCREENING
You must indicate if there is any relevance to the four areas
Duty to eliminate discrimination (E), advance equal opportunities
(A) or foster good relations (F) No
Relevance to Human Rights (HR) No
Relevance to Health Impacts (H) No
Relevance to Social Economic Impacts (SE) No
Who will be affected by this policy?
Who will be/has been involved in the consultation process?
Please outline any particular need/barriers which equality groups may have in relation to this
policy list evidence you are using to support this and whether there is any negative impact on
particular groups.
 
Needs Evidence Impact
Age
Cross Cutting
Disability
Social & Economic
Impact
Sex
Gender Reassign
Health
Human Rights
Marriage & Civil

Page 141

Partnership
Pregnancy &
Maternity
Race
Religion and Belief
Sexual Orientation
Actions
Policy has a negative impact on an equality group,but is still to be implemented, please provide
justification for this.
Will the impact of the policy be monitored and reported on an ongoing bases?
Q7 What is you recommendation for this policy?
Please provide a meaningful summary of how you have reached the recommendation
Screening 655: The proposal was screened and is not relevant, so no EIA is required.

Page 142

AssessmentNo 656 Owner dmain
Resource Transformation Service/Establishment Budget CCF
 
First Name Surname Job title
Head Officer Amanda Graham Chief Officer
(include job titles/organisation)
Members Stephen Daly - Citizen Services David Main - Library Services
 
(Please note: the word 'policy' is used as shorthand for stategy
policy function or financial decision)
Policy Title CCF 02 Budget options - Library closures
 
The aim, objective,purpose and intended out come of policy
Under this option, main branch libraries in Alexandria, Dumbarton
and Clydebank would be retained, with Balloch, Parkhall, Duntocher,
Faifley and Dalmuir libraries closed. If all five closures were
progressed, this would result in the deletion of 12 posts. This
proposal would generate a saving of circa £427,000 (£300,000 from
staffing and £127,000 from property running costs including energy
and maintenance).
 
 
Service/Partners/Stakeholders/service users involved in the
development and/or implementation of policy.
Library Services
Does the proposals involve the procurement of any goods or
services? Yes
If yes please confirm that you have contacted our
procurement services to discuss your requirements. No
SCREENING
You must indicate if there is any relevance to the four areas
Duty to eliminate discrimination (E), advance equal
opportunities (A) or foster good relations (F) Yes
Relevance to Human Rights (HR) No
Relevance to Health Impacts (H) Yes
Relevance to Social Economic Impacts (SE) Yes
Who will be affected by this policy?
West Dunbartonshire Council residents/library users
Who will be/has been involved in the consultation process?
Library Services
Please outline any particular need/barriers which equality groups may have in
relation to this policy list evidence you are using to support this and whether
there is any negative impact on particular groups.
 
Needs Evidence Impact
Age
The Council must
not discriminate in
the way it provided
services
Older people are
more likely to
experience mobility
issues and social
isolation.
Library closures will
further reduce
opportunities for
social interaction by
those already
isolated.
Cross Cutting The Council has a Separate savings Despite a long-term

Page 143

statutory duty to
provide an adequate
library service to
residents. It is
important that the
Council takes
account of how
various factors
might interact.
proposals may lead
to further reductions
in other available
community
provision (e.g.
community centres,
Working4U learning
programmes).
national trend of
declining physical
visitors to libraries,
West
Dunbartonshire
Libraries are seeing
continual growth
since the pandemic
as residents return
to libraries. Physical
use is increasing
quarter on quarter
towards pre-
pandemic levels;
digital use of
services remains at
an all-time high
following the forced
digital pivot during
lockdown. Numbers
of family Bookbug
sessions, adult craft
sessions, heritage
and author events
continue to
demonstrate the
demand for library
services in the area.
Library closures will
significantly reduce
the services and
resources available
to local communities
- with those most
affected usually
experiencing
multiple deprivation,
such as social
&digital exclusion
and poverty. Young
children, families on
low incomes as well
as the unemployed
and older residents
will likely
experience the most
significant negative
impacts. Requiring
users to travel
greater distances to
access support in
alternative venues
may present new

Page 144

barriers for some
(e.g. bus timetables
and stop locations).
Disability
The council has a
legal duty to make
its services
accessible to
disabled people, this
is both proactively
('Anticipatory') and
also requires
Reasonable
Adjustments.
People with mobility
issues may
experience barriers
to accessing Council
services located in
unsuitable buildings.
Closure of libraries
will further reduce
the ability for some
residents to access
Council services in
person. Virtual
platforms will not be
suitable for all,
resulting in some
residents becoming
further isolated from
accessing support.
The Home Library
service will likely
see a significant rise
in demand which
may not be possible
to meet with current
resource.
Social & Economic
Impact
The Council has a
focus on reducing
poverty.
Library services
address many issues
associated with
poverty and the
cost-of-living,
including offering
free internet access,
free reading
material, free and
welcoming warm
spaces, free
community support
and free educational
activities.
Library closures will
further limit the
opportunity for
those experiencing
social isolation
and/or hardship to
access support. As
physical routes to
support are
removed, those who
are digitally
excluded will face
more obstacles in
accessing assistance.
Sex
The Council needs to
consider impacts of
staff and service
users
75% of staff are
female research
shows that women
have on average less
access to private
transport (CARS)
than men
Any reductions in
numbers of staff are
more likely to be
experienced by
women because of
workforce
composition
Gender Reassign
Health
Health and
wellbeing is focus
area in the Council's
Strategic Plan.
Reading is proven to
contribute to
positive mental
health. Libraries also
act as an information
and collection point
for some community
health services.
Library closures will
further limit the
space available for
community support
groups to meet and
for health
information to be
accessed. Reductions
to the library offer

Page 145

may contribute to
adverse mental
health issues for
some service users.
Human Rights
Marriage & Civil
Partnership
Pregnancy &
Maternity
Race
The Council must
not discriminate in
the way it provided
services.
People who do not
speak English well
may experience
barriers to accessing
support.
The loss of local
signposting to
support will likely
negatively impact
those who do not
speak English as a
first language.
Requiring users to
access services
online will likely
introduce new
barriers to this
group.
Religion and Belief
Sexual Orientation
Actions
Policy has a negative impact on an equality group,but is still to be implemented,
please provide justification for this.
The proposal would safeguard library provision in Alexandria, Dumbarton and
Clydebank - the three main populated areas of West Dunbartonshire, while resulting
in the Council owning less buildings with significantly reduced associated costs in
utilities, rates, maintenance.
Will the impact of the policy be monitored and reported on an ongoing bases?
Yes
Q7 What is you recommendation for this policy?
Intoduce
Please provide a meaningful summary of how you have reached the
recommendation
EIA 656 details negative potential impacts for older people, women, disabled people
and for those experiencing social isolation and/or hardship from poverty. While
physical visits to libraries have experienced a long-term national trend of slow
decline over the past decade, West Dunbartonshire Libraries continue to see a steady
increase in physical visitors since the pandemic as residents continue to return.
Online use of digital library resources remains extremely high and would likely to
continue to do so, however it is important to recognise this only represents use from
those who are digitally connected at present. Library closures will further widen the
digital exclusion gap with a significant reduction in community internet provision.
Retaining library provision in the main populated areas of Alexandria, Dumbarton
and Clydebank means residents can still access these vital community services in the
larger towns, while generating a significant saving to Council budgets.

Page 146

AssessmentNo 659 Owner LPENNYCOOK
Resource Transformation Service/Establishment Budget Ed
 
First Name Surname Job title
Head Officer Laura Mason Chief Education Officer
(include job titles/organisation)
Members
Andrew Brown - Senior Education Officer Julie McGrogan - Senior Education
Officer Kathy Morrison - Senior Education Officer Claire Cusick - Senior
Education Officer Ellen Moran - Principal Educational Psychologist
 
(Please note: the word 'policy' is used as shorthand for stategy policy
function or financial decision)
Policy Title EDU-15 Reduce Education Greenspace Budget
 
The aim, objective,purpose and intended out come of policy
Education Services budget allocation for Grounds Maintenance in educational
premises is £313,883. Last year costs paid were £283k. Consider reducing this
budget by £100k. Current grounds maintenance provision includes: grass
cutting, hedge cutting, weed killing, shrub maintenance and sports pitch
maintenance. The level of maintenance differs within each premise. Education
Services budget allocation for Grounds Maintenance in educational premises
is £313,883. Consider reducing this budget by £100k. 2 options for
consideration: 1. Change the frequency of grass cuts from fortnightly to 4
weekly. There would be no changes to sports pitches. Grass within
educational premises is currently cut every fortnight (twice per month). The
frequency of cuts would reduce to one cut every 4 weeks; or 2. Identify large
areas of grass &plant small trees so the grass would not require to be cut.
These areas would now be an area of biodiversity. The trees would be funded
from Greenspace’s Nature Restoration Fund.
 
 
Service/Partners/Stakeholders/service users involved in the
development and/or implementation of policy.
Consultation with other Council services who currently provide this service as
there may be an impact on staffing within other departments. Consultation
with HR, HTs/HOC’s, TU’s to advise of possible changes to the learning
environment.
Does the proposals involve the procurement of any goods or
services? Yes
If yes please confirm that you have contacted our
procurement services to discuss your requirements. No
SCREENING
You must indicate if there is any relevance to the four areas
Duty to eliminate discrimination (E), advance equal
opportunities (A) or foster good relations (F) Yes
Relevance to Human Rights (HR) Yes
Relevance to Health Impacts (H) Yes
Relevance to Social Economic Impacts (SE) Yes
Who will be affected by this policy?
Children attending schools/ELCC’s as this will affect the outside learning environment. Other
Council department who currently provide this service as may result in a reduction to current
staffing if option 1 is approved.

Page 147

Who will be/has been involved in the consultation process?
Consultation with other Council department who currently provide this service and any
impact on staffing within other departments. Consultation with HR, HTs/HOC’s and TU’s to
advise of possible changes to the learning environment.
Please outline any particular need/barriers which equality groups may have in relation
to this policy list evidence you are using to support this and whether there is any
negative impact on particular groups.
 
Needs Evidence Impact
Age
Cross Cutting
It is important to
consider how
elements may
interact.
It is important that
shared areas are
accessible to all.
Outside learning
spaces may be less
accessible due to
long grass.
Disability
The Council had a
duty to make its
services accessible
to disabled people,
including pupils.
This is an
anticipatory duty.
We must seek to
mitigate any
negative impacts.
Areas with more
accessible green
space are associated
with better mental
and physical health.
It is important that
shared areas are
accessible to all
A reduction in grass
cutting/maintenance
may have an impact
on accessibility for
pupils with
additional special
needs if grass is left
without being cut for
longer periods.
Social & Economic
Impact
The Council needs to
consider the
interplay between
social and economic
factors.
Outside greenspace
may be particularly
important to pupils
who cannot access
this where they live
Negative Impact If
there is a reduction
to grass cutting,
grass will be long
and more cut grass
will lie during
periods. This grass
may be carried in to
schools which will
be unsightly and a
possible health and
safety hazard. There
may be a perception
by staff, pupils and
residents that areas
are less well
maintained. There
will be a reduction of
4 FTE posts within
Greenspace if the
reduction in grass
cutting option is
approved. This could
result in
redeployment
through Switch for
staff.
Sex
Gender Reassign

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Health
Health and
wellbeing are a
priority for the
Council as noted in
our Strategic Plan
22-27.
Redeployment of
staff.
Physical
environment can
influence physical
and mental health
Negative Impact If
there is a reduction
to grass cutting,
grass will be long
and more cut grass
will lie during
periods. This grass
may be carried in to
schools which will
be unsightly and a
possible health and
safety hazard. There
may be a perception
by staff, pupils and
residents that areas
are less well
maintained. Option 2
may provide
mitigation to the
above. If more trees
were planted, this
will provide a more
attractive and
natural environment
and also create areas
of biodiversity.
Human Rights
Human Rights
Act/ECHR Article 8
This includes a right
to participate in
essential economic,
social, cultural and
leisure activities.
UNCRC Article 3 Best
interests of the child
Every decision and
action taken relating
to a child must be in
their best interests.
Outside greenspace
may be particularly
important to pupils
who cannot access
this where they live.
Impacts have been
considered in the
round in this
assessment.
Marriage & Civil
Partnership
Pregnancy &
Maternity
Race
Religion and Belief
Sexual Orientation
Actions
Policy has a negative impact on an equality group,but is still to be implemented, please
provide justification for this.
As above.
Will the impact of the policy be monitored and reported on an ongoing bases?

Page 149

We will monitor impact by consulting Head Teachers/Heads of Centres. HR monitoring of the
demographic of staff potentially affected (within another service area). Monitoring will be
carried out on a termly basis.
Q7 What is you recommendation for this policy?
Intoduce
Please provide a meaningful summary of how you have reached the recommendation
EIA 659: 2 options have been considered in terms of impacts: 1. Some potential negative
impacts noted in section 2 of the EIA in terms of disability, health and cross cutting elements;
or 2. Identify large areas of grass &plant small trees so the grass would not require to be cut.
This may mitigate some of the negative impacts compared to option 1. There may be some
positive impacts.

Page 150

AssessmentNo 660 Owner mlynn2
Resource
Regeneration,
Environment
and Growth
Service/Establishment Budget SD and P
 
First Name Surname Job title
Head Officer Angela Wilson Chief Officer Supply Distribution &Property
(include job titles/organisation)
Members Michelle Lynn Assets Coordinator
 
(Please note: the word 'policy' is used as shorthand for stategy policy function or
financial decision)
Policy Title SDP14 Review the use of Municipal Buildings to identify alternative uses or
commercial opportunities
 
The aim, objective,purpose and intended out come of policy
Maximise opportunities to rationalise use of our operational Estate to deliver in
year savings on property running costs and where applicable increase revenue by
leases parts thereof. Additional revenue income will add to the relevant budget lines
for use by WDC
 
 
Service/Partners/Stakeholders/service users involved in the development
and/or implementation of policy.
No staff members will be displaced as a result of this proposal. Should opportunities
arise for additional income a further EIA will be produced for that purpose.
Does the proposals involve the procurement of any goods or
services? No
If yes please confirm that you have contacted our
procurement services to discuss your requirements. No
SCREENING
You must indicate if there is any relevance to the four areas
Duty to eliminate discrimination (E), advance equal
opportunities (A) or foster good relations (F) No
Relevance to Human Rights (HR) No
Relevance to Health Impacts (H) No
Relevance to Social Economic Impacts (SE) No
Who will be affected by this policy?
WDC staff members
Who will be/has been involved in the consultation process?
Chief Officers and Service Managers
Please outline any particular need/barriers which equality groups may have in relation to
this policy list evidence you are using to support this and whether there is any negative
impact on particular groups.
 
Needs Evidence Impact
Age N/A N/A N/A
Cross Cutting N/A N/A N/A
Disability N/A N/A N/A
Social & Economic
Impact N/A N/A N/A
Sex N/A N/A N/A

Page 151

Gender Reassign N/A N/A N/A
Health N/A N/A N/A
Human Rights N/A N/A N/A
Marriage & Civil
Partnership N/A N/A N/A
Pregnancy &
Maternity N/A N/A N/A
Race N/A N/A N/A
Religion and Belief N/A N/A N/A
Sexual Orientation N/A N/A N/A
Actions
Policy has a negative impact on an equality group,but is still to be implemented, please
provide justification for this.
Proposal does not have a negative impact with any group.
Will the impact of the policy be monitored and reported on an ongoing bases?
Yes continued monitoring of staff accommodation is monitored via SAMG and service managers
meetings.
Q7 What is you recommendation for this policy?
Please provide a meaningful summary of how you have reached the recommendation
Screening 660 concludes that the proposal is not relevant and therefore does not require an impact
assessment, as it builds on successful existing arrangements and does not introduce significant
changes.

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1 
Equality Impact Assessment record layout for information: Assessment Number 664 
Owner: Craig Jardine 
Resource: Regeneration Service/Establishment: SD&P 
First Name Surname Job Title
Head Officer: Angela Wilson Chief Officer Supply Distribution & Property 
Include job titles/organisation
Members: Craig Jardine Corporate Asset Manager 
Please note: the word policy is used as shorthand for strategy policy function or financial decision
Policy Title: SDP11 Reduce Consultancy Services and Capital Investment Team 
The aim, objective, purpose and intended outcome of policy
Consultancy Services and the Capital Investment Team sits within Corporate Asset Management and is the design, construction and
project management service which administers and manages capital programmed construction works of all size and types. Given the
planned reduction of capital projects and the current review of the capital programme the support from Consultancy Services and the
Capital Investment Team should be reviewed with the review also considering how costs are recharged against the appropriate budget. 
Within Consultancy Services there are 24 employees of varying grades. The team comprises of a programme leader, a senior
architectural officer, an electrical engineer, a senior clerk of works, architectural officers, architectural assistants, quantity surveying
officers, clerks of works. 
Within the Capital Investment Team there are 6 posts of varying grades. The team comprises of capital project managers, client
business partners, scoping officer and support co-ordinator.

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2 
The revised recharging model across GS / HRA capital has been agreed with Finance and the proposal is to remove 4 posts within
Consultancy Services and 2 posts from the Capital Investment Team. 
Service/Partners/Stakeholders/service users involved in the development and/or implementation of policy
WDC Staff Members/Chief Officers 
Does the proposals involve the procurement of any goods or services? Y
If yes please confirm that you have contacted our procurement services
to discuss your requirements 
SCREENING
You must indicate if there is any relevance to the four areas
Duty to eliminate discrimination (E), advance equal opportunities (A)
or foster good relations (F) Y
Relevance to Human Rights (HR) Y
Relevance to Health Impacts (H) Y
Relevance to Social Economic Impacts (SE) Y 
Who will be affected by this policy? 
All Council services, Elected Members and partner organisations including the Scottish Government.

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3 
Who will be/has been involved in the consultation process?
Stewart Paton, Programme Leader Consultancy Services and Craig Jardine, Corporate Asset Manager   - conducted this high level
efficiency option;
Angela Wilson, Chief Officer - Supply, Distribution and Property Services, West Dunbartonshire Council - interrogated this high level
efficiency option;
Performance and Monitoring Review Group, West Dunbartonshire Council - where informed of this high level efficiency option; 
Martin Rooney, Leader of the Council - was informed of this high level efficiency option; and
Michelle McGinty, Deputy Leader of the Council - was informed of this high level efficiency option. 
If this high level efficiency option is to be taken forward to the next stage; staff, Trade Unions and Elected Members will be consulted. 
Please outline any particular need/barriers which equality groups may have in relation to this policy list evidence you are
using to support this and whether there is any negative impact on particular groups 
Needs Evidence Impact
Age Worries surrounding job
security may be heighten
in older staff - reiterate
the commitment to no
compulsory
redundancies 
Please see cross cutting
https://www.gov.scot/publications/scotlands-
labour-market-people-places-regions-statistics-
annual-population-survey-2019/ 
https://www.gov.scot/publications/older-people-
employment-scotland/ 
The age profile in the current structure:
0 staff = <24 years old       
0 staff = 25 -29 years old
2 staff = 30 - 34 years old
2 staff = 35 - 39 years old
4 staff = 40 - 44 years old
3 staff = 45 - 49 years old
5 staff = 50 - 54 years old
4 staff = 55 – 59 years old 
3 staff = 60  - 64 years old 
3 staff = 65 + years old 
4 vacant posts
Negative - This could heightened
concerns of staff about any displacement,
as evidence suggests that those over 50
find it more difficult to regain employment.
Any potential reduction in staffing
requirements could be managed through 
SWITCH redeployment programme.
Additional support will be available to any
employees impacted by the savings
options to ensure their health and
wellbeing.

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4 
Needs Evidence Impact
Disability Worries surrounding job
security may be heighten
in disabled staff -
reiterate the commitment
to no compulsory
redundancies 
Please see cross cutting 
HR21 report 
Disabled people in employment - House of
Commons Library (parliament.uk) 
There is at least 1 staff who is disabled
Negative - This could heightened
concerns of staff about any displacement.
Any potential reduction in staffing
requirements could be managed through 
SWITCH redeployment programme.
Additional support will be available to any
employees impacted by the savings
options to ensure their health and
wellbeing.
Gender
Reassign
Please see cross cutting  Neutral
Marriage &
Civil
Partnership
Please see cross cutting  Neutral
Pregnancy
& Maternity
Please see cross cutting  Neutral
Race Please see cross cutting  Neutral
Religion &
Belief
Please see cross cutting  Neutral
Sex Worries surrounding job
security may be heighten
in women - reiterate the
commitment to no
compulsory
redundancies 
Please see cross cutting
There are 11 out of 30 staff who are women Neutral
Sexual
Orientation
Please see cross cutting  Neutral
Human
Rights
Please see cross cutting  Neutral

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5 
Needs Evidence Impact
Health Worries surrounding job
security may be heighten
in staff who have Health
conditions 
Please see cross cutting
Occupational Health Reports Negative - This could heightened
concerns of staff about any displacement.
Any potential reduction in staffing
requirements could be managed through 
SWITCH redeployment programme.
Additional support will be available to any
employees impacted by the savings
options to ensure their health and
wellbeing.
Social &
Economic
Impact
Please see cross cutting  Neutral
Cross
Cutting
Identify a "champion" to
assist with understanding
of this process for staff 
Reiterate the commitment
to no compulsory
redundancies to mitigate
against any heightened
concerns 
Neutral
Policy has a negative impact on an equality group, but is still to be implemented, please provide justification for this
There is the potential for 6 FTE  to be displaced.  A fair process would be undertaken in line with the Council's policies.
Will the impact of the policy be monitored and reported on an ongoing bases?
Yes

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6 
What is your recommendation for this policy?
Introduce
Please provide a meaningful summary of how you have reached the recommendation
EIA 664 details impact on staff.  6 staff in a current structure of 22.14 FTE, will be potentially displaced. Employees affected will be
supported through the Council Wellbeing and Switch policy. 
Michelle Lynn Phone: 6992 Date Started: 14-Feb-2023

Page 158

AssessmentNo 665 Owner andbrown
Resource Transformation Service/Establishment Budget Ed
 
First Name Surname Job title
Head Officer Claire Cusick Senior Education Officer
(include job titles/organisation)
Members
Laura Mason - Chief Officer Andrew Brown - Senior Education Officer Julie
McGrogan - Senior Education Officer Kathy Morrison - Senior Education Officer
Ellen Moran - Principal Educational Psychologist
 
(Please note: the word 'policy' is used as shorthand for stategy policy
function or financial decision)
Policy Title Savings Option EDU12 - Remove breakfast club provision in all primary schools
 
The aim, objective,purpose and intended out come of policy
Presently, all primary schools in West Dunbartonshire offer a breakfast club
provision. Uptake is split between children from families who benefit from the
service for the provision of breakfast, and children whose parents drop them
off early at school to facilitate shift work/travel to work. Breakfast clubs are
staffed in the main by Learning Assistants and Clerical Assistants who receive
payment for these additional hours. The Breakfast Club operates between 8.00
a.m. – 9.00 a.m. The overall operation of the Breakfast Club is the responsibility
of the Head teacher and the suggested timetable is: 8.00 a.m. – 8.15 a.m. setting
up /preparation time 8.15 a.m. – 8.50 a.m. Breakfast Club open 8.50 a.m. – 9.00
a.m. clearing up time. Under this proposal, breakfast club provision would
cease, generating a saving of £142,000 (including on costs) in the first year. The
first year saving (2023/2024) would be a part-year saving and the saving
detailed is based on the 8 month period August – March. The savings for future
years would equate to £212,867 (including on costs) This proposal will impact
the equivalent of 69 employees who are predominantly female. The average
weekly hours required to cover breakfast clubs in the post is between 3 – 5
hours per week.
 
 
Service/Partners/Stakeholders/service users involved in the
development and/or implementation of policy.
Consultation with other Council services who currently assist in the provision
of this service. Consultation with stakeholders, HR, HTs &TU’s to advise of
possible changes.
Does the proposals involve the procurement of any goods or
services? Yes
If yes please confirm that you have contacted our
procurement services to discuss your requirements. No
SCREENING
You must indicate if there is any relevance to the four areas
Duty to eliminate discrimination (E), advance equal
opportunities (A) or foster good relations (F) Yes
Relevance to Human Rights (HR) Yes
Relevance to Health Impacts (H) Yes
Relevance to Social Economic Impacts (SE) Yes
Who will be affected by this policy?
Families with primary school children who benefit from the service for the provision of

Page 159

breakfast, and primary school children whose parents drop them off early at school to facilitate
shift work/travel to work. Employees who work within the breakfast clubs.
Who will be/has been involved in the consultation process?
Consultation with other Council department who currently provide this service. Consultation
with HR, HTs and TU’s to advise of possible impact on families.
Please outline any particular need/barriers which equality groups may have in relation
to this policy list evidence you are using to support this and whether there is any
negative impact on particular groups.
 
Needs Evidence Impact
Age
Cross Cutting
Disability
Priority group in
terms of child
poverty
Households with one
or more disabled
person are more
likely to be income
deprived. Loss of
breakfast clubs
could impact this
group negatively.
Negative
Social & Economic
Impact
The Council needs to
consider the
interplay between
social and economic
factors.
Breakfast clubs were
introduced locally as
a direct response to
need.
Negative Impact
Removing Breakfast
Clubs will impact the
poorest in our
communities.
Sex
Women/single
parents; Priority
group in terms of
child poverty
Women are more
likely to income
deprived than men.
Around 90% of
single parents are
women. Staff
working in breakfast
clubs are
predominantly
female. Loss of
breakfast clubs
could impact both
women and single
parents negatively.
Negative
Gender Reassign
Health
Health and
wellbeing are a
priority for the
Council as noted in
our Strategic Plan
22-27.
Ensuring children
eat a nutritious
breakfast is
important to their
health and
wellbeing.
Negative Impact
Human Rights
The right to food is
recognized as a
human right
Breakfast clubs were
introduced in WDC
school as a direct
response to the fact
that many children
were arriving at
school having had
Negative

Page 160

nothing to eat that
day.
Marriage & Civil
Partnership
Pregnancy &
Maternity
Race
BME families are a
Priority group in
terms of child
poverty.
People from BME
groups are more
likely to be income
deprived than those
from white groups.
Loss of breakfast
clubs could impact
this group
negatively.
Negative
Religion and Belief
Sexual Orientation
Actions
Policy has a negative impact on an equality group,but is still to be implemented, please
provide justification for this.
Council has a statutory duty to provide a balanced budget. It may be possible to cater for those
who require breakfast by other means.
Will the impact of the policy be monitored and reported on an ongoing bases?
We will monitor impact by consulting Head Teachers. Monitoring will be carried out on a
termly basis.
Q7 What is you recommendation for this policy?
Intoduce
Please provide a meaningful summary of how you have reached the recommendation
EIA 665: Whilst breakfast clubs are used by many for the provision of breakfast, for many
others it provides childcare facilities. It may be possible to cater for those who require
breakfast by other means.

Page 161

AssessmentNo 666 Owner andbrown
Resource Transformation Service/Establishment Budget Ed
 
First Name Surname Job title
Head Officer Julie McGrogan Senior Education Officer
(include job titles/organisation)
Members
Laura Mason - Chief Education Officer Andrew Brown - Senior Education
Officer Kathy Morrison - Senior Education Officer Claire Cusick - Senior
Education Officer Ellen Moran - Principal Educational Psychologist
 
(Please note: the word 'policy' is used as shorthand for stategy policy
function or financial decision)
Policy Title Savings Option EDU13 - Remove the provision of free swimming lessons for
children in primary 4
 
The aim, objective,purpose and intended out come of policy
Currently in West Dunbartonshire, £14,000 funding is allocated to provide
free swimming lessons to children in primary 4 during term time.
 
 
Service/Partners/Stakeholders/service users involved in the
development and/or implementation of policy.
Consultation with West Dunbartonshire Leisure Trust who currently assist
in the provision of this service. Consultation with stakeholders, HTs, TU’s to
advise of possible changes.
Does the proposals involve the procurement of any goods or
services? Yes
If yes please confirm that you have contacted our procurement
services to discuss your requirements. No
SCREENING
You must indicate if there is any relevance to the four areas
Duty to eliminate discrimination (E), advance equal
opportunities (A) or foster good relations (F) Yes
Relevance to Human Rights (HR) Yes
Relevance to Health Impacts (H) Yes
Relevance to Social Economic Impacts (SE) Yes
Who will be affected by this policy?
Children attending schools will no longer receive free swimming lessons, and would need to
gain this life skill elsewhere. WD Leisure would need to consider the need for a programme
of swimming lessons, and ascertain costs and uptake of such a programme. As such, it is
likely to be those most in need and at risk that would be affected by this change.
Who will be/has been involved in the consultation process?
Consultation with WD Leisure who currently provide this service. Consultation with
stakeholders, HR, HTs and TU’s to advise of possible impact on families.
Please outline any particular need/barriers which equality groups may have in
relation to this policy list evidence you are using to support this and whether there is
any negative impact on particular groups.
 
Needs Evidence Impact
Age
Cross Cutting
Disability Priority group in
terms of child
Households with one
or more disabled Negative

Page 162

poverty
person are more
likely to be income
deprived and face
challenges engaging
with any swimming
programme not
organised /arranged
by the schools.
Social & Economic
Impact
The Council needs to
consider the
interplay between
social and economic
factors.
School swimming
lessons were
introduced to ensure
that all of our young
people gain this
important life skill -
especially important
bearing in mind the
number of
waterways in the
local authority, and
the dangers they
present. Lower
income families
would struggle to
engage with
swimming lessons if
they are not
provided for them
through school.
Negative Impact
Sex
Women/single
parents; Priority
group in terms of
child poverty
Women are more
likely to income
deprived than men.
Around 90% of
single parents are
women. Were
swimming lessons
not organised /
arranged by schools,
single parents would
struggle to engage.
Negative
Gender Reassign
Health
Health and
wellbeing are a
priority for the
Council as noted in
our Strategic Plan
22-27.
Swimming is an
activity that
promotes health and
wellbeing. Reducing
the number of
children able to
swim would impact
on their health and
wellbeing, and
without this life skill
would present a risk
to life.
Negative Impact
Human Rights Whilst learning how Article 2 of Human Negative

Page 163

to swim is not a
human right,
knowing how to
swim can contribute
to article 2
protecting the right
to life.
Rights Act
Marriage & Civil
Partnership
Pregnancy &
Maternity
Race
BME families are a
Priority group in
terms of child
poverty.
People from BME
groups are more
likely to be income
deprived than those
from white groups,
and as such face
challenges engaging
with any swimming
programme not
organised /
arranged by the
schools.
Negative
Religion and Belief
Sexual Orientation
Actions
Policy has a negative impact on an equality group,but is still to be implemented,
please provide justification for this.
The council has a statutory duty to balance the budget. Water safety is a discussion at
various stages of school and in a number of curriculum areas. This works together with
ensuring children are able to swim.
Will the impact of the policy be monitored and reported on an ongoing bases?
We will monitor impact by consulting Head Teachers. Monitoring will be carried out on a
termly basis.
Q7 What is you recommendation for this policy?
Don't Introduce
Please provide a meaningful summary of how you have reached the recommendation
EIA 666: The provision of free swimming lessons for all of our children ensures that they
acquire a basic life saving skill. The abundance of rivers, canals and lochs in our our
geographical area present a significant risk to those without this skill - indeed, there have
been a number of recent fatalities. The relatively small amount saved by this proposal does
not outweigh the risk presented by removing the service.

Page 164

AssessmentNo 667 Owner andbrown
Resource Transformation Service/Establishment Budget Ed
 
First Name Surname Job title
Head Officer Julie McGrogan Senior Education Officer
(include job titles/organisation)
Members
Laura Mason - Chief Education Officer Andrew Brown - Senior Education
Officer Kathy Morrison - Senior Education Officer Claire Cusick - Senior
Education Officer Ellen Moran - Principal Educational Psychologist
 
(Please note: the word 'policy' is used as shorthand for stategy policy
function or financial decision)
Policy Title Savings Option EDU09 - Reduce the provision of clerical support hours in
primary schools
 
The aim, objective,purpose and intended out come of policy
The Council currently offers 2,250 hours of clerical support in primary schools
costing £1.461m. This equates to 64.3 FTE posts. Under this proposal, a review
of clerical operations within primary schools would be undertaken to identify
duplication and ensure the service is working efficiently. It is proposed that a
saving of £119,420 could be achieved by introducing modern technological
solutions, creating a local learning community administrative support
function, reviewing front-line personnel required in school offices and
introducing modern working practices including flexible working to enhance
the work-life balance of employees. A review would take place in session
2023/24, with a saving equivalent to 5FTE being taken in 2024/25.
 
 
Service/Partners/Stakeholders/service users involved in the
development and/or implementation of policy.
Consultation with HTs, HR, TUs and staff regarding continuation of the service
for the duration of the pilot project.
Does the proposals involve the procurement of any goods or
services? Yes
If yes please confirm that you have contacted our procurement
services to discuss your requirements. No
SCREENING
You must indicate if there is any relevance to the four areas
Duty to eliminate discrimination (E), advance equal
opportunities (A) or foster good relations (F) Yes
Relevance to Human Rights (HR) Yes
Relevance to Health Impacts (H) Yes
Relevance to Social Economic Impacts (SE) Yes
Who will be affected by this policy?
Clerical Assistants based in primary schools.
Who will be/has been involved in the consultation process?
Head Teachers, Business Managers, Clerical Assistants, TU’s, Education Officers, HR advisors,
Staffing and Finance Officers
Please outline any particular need/barriers which equality groups may have in relation
to this policy list evidence you are using to support this and whether there is any
negative impact on particular groups.
 
Needs Evidence Impact

Page 165

Age
Cross Cutting
Disability
Social & Economic
Impact
Sex
Women/single
parents; Priority
group in terms of
child poverty
Clerical Assistants in
our primary schools
are primarily female.
Women are more
likely to be income
deprived than men.
Around 90% of
single parents are
women.
Negative
Gender Reassign
Health
Human Rights
Marriage & Civil
Partnership
Pregnancy &
Maternity
Race .
Religion and Belief
Sexual Orientation
Actions
Policy has a negative impact on an equality group,but is still to be implemented, please
provide justification for this.
Council has a statutory duty to provide a balanced budget. Any potential reduction in staffing
requirements could be managed through the SWITCH redeployment programme.
Will the impact of the policy be monitored and reported on an ongoing bases?
HR monitoring of the demographic of staff potentially affected. Feedback is expected from
Head Teachers, Parents and carers, TU’s, Education Officers, HR advisors, Staffing and Finance
Officers
Q7 What is you recommendation for this policy?
Intoduce
Please provide a meaningful summary of how you have reached the recommendation
EIA 667: Reducing the provision of clerical support hours in primary schools will bring
updated working practices and processes to primary schools, reducing unnecessary
duplication across establishments. Any potential reduction in staffing requirements could be
managed through natural turnover of staff, and/or SWITCH redeployment programne.

Page 166

AssessmentNo 668 Owner mlynn2
Resource
Regeneration,
Environment
and Growth
Service/Establishment Budget SD and P
 
First Name Surname Job title
Head Officer Angela Wilson Chief Officer Supply Distribution &Property
(include job titles/organisation)
Members Michelle Lynn Assets Coordinator
 
(Please note: the word 'policy' is used as shorthand for stategy policy
function or financial decision)
Policy Title
SDP13 Reduce the resource in the Asset Management team from 22.14
FTE to 19.14 FTE removing three posts. This generates a capital budget
saving rather than revenue.
 
The aim, objective,purpose and intended out come of policy
The Council’s Asset Management team is currently made up of a
workforce of 25 equating to 22.14 FTE. An initial review of service has
been undertaken to try and deliver savings whilst streamlining processes.
The initial review also looked at the support Asset Management receive
from CAS and other services across the authority. The initial review has
looked at processes involving monitoring physical assets and digital
system holding asset information together with monitoring and
instructing repairs to BAM schools. There are no further vacancies within
the team. Under this option, the Asset Management team would continue
to operate with 22 employees, equating to 19.14 FTE. This will generate a
capital saving rather than a revenue saving. This option is in line with the
capital programme reduction agreed at council in December. CAPITAL
SAVING 23/24 - £96,036 24/25 - £97,957 25/26 - £99,916
 
 
Service/Partners/Stakeholders/service users involved in the
development and/or implementation of policy.
WDC Staff Members/Chief Officers
Does the proposals involve the procurement of any goods or
services? Yes
If yes please confirm that you have contacted our
procurement services to discuss your requirements. No
SCREENING
You must indicate if there is any relevance to the four areas
Duty to eliminate discrimination (E), advance equal
opportunities (A) or foster good relations (F) Yes
Relevance to Human Rights (HR) Yes
Relevance to Health Impacts (H) Yes
Relevance to Social Economic Impacts (SE) Yes
Who will be affected by this policy?
All Council services, Elected Members and partner organisations including the Scottish
Government.
Who will be/has been involved in the consultation process?
Michelle Lynn, Assets Coordinator - conducted this high level efficiency option ; Angela
Wilson, Chief Officer - Supply, Distribution and Property Services, West Dunbartonshire

Page 167

Council - interrogated this high level efficiency option; Performance and Monitoring
Review Group, West Dunbartonshire Council - where informed of this high level efficiency
option; Martin Rooney, Leader of the Council - was informed of this high level efficiency
option; and Michelle McGinty, Deputy Leader of the Council - was informed of this high
level efficiency option. If this high level efficiency option is to be taken forward to the next
stage; staff, Trade Unions and Elected Members will be consulted.
Please outline any particular need/barriers which equality groups may have in
relation to this policy list evidence you are using to support this and whether there
is any negative impact on particular groups.
 
Needs Evidence Impact
Age
Worries
surrounding job
security may be
heighten in older
staff - reiterate the
commitment to no
compulsory
redundancies Please
see cross cutting
https://www.gov.sc
ot/publications/scot
lands-labour-
market-people-
places-regions-
statistics-annual-
population-survey-
2019/
https://www.gov.sc
ot/publications/olde
r-people-
employment-
scotland/
Negative - This could
heightened concerns
of staff about any
displacement, as
evidence suggests
that those over 50
find it more difficult
to regain
employment. Any
potential reduction
in staffing
requirements could
be managed through
SWITCH
redeployment
programme.
Cross Cutting
Identify a
"champion" to assist
with understanding
of this process for
staff Reiterate the
commitment to no
compulsory
redundancies to
mitigate against any
heightened concerns
Neutral
Disability
Worries
surrounding job
security may be
heighten in disabled
staff - reiterate the
commitment to no
compulsory
redundancies Please
see cross cutting
HR21 report
Disabled people in
employment - House
of Commons Library
(parliament.uk)
There is at least 1
staff who is disabled
Negative - This could
heightened concerns
of staff about any
displacement. Any
potential reduction
in staffing
requirements could
be managed through
SWITCH
redeployment
programme.
Social & Economic
Impact
Please see cross
cutting. Neutral
Sex
Worries
surrounding job
security may be
heighten in women -
There are 2 out of 3
staff who are women
This may have a
negative impact as
women are more
likely to be affected

Page 168

reiterate the
commitment to no
compulsory
redundancies Please
see cross cutting
by this policy. Any
potential reduction
in staffing
requirements could
be managed through
SWITCH
redeployment
programme.
Gender Reassign Please see cross
cutting Neutral
Health
Worries
surrounding job
security may be
heighten in staff who
have Health
conditions Please
see cross cutting
Occupational Health
Reports
Negative - This could
heightened concerns
of staff about any
displacement. Any
potential reduction
in staffing
requirements could
be managed through
SWITCH
redeployment
programme.
Additional support
will be available to
any employees
impacted by the
savings options to
ensure their health
and wellbeing.
Human Rights Please see cross
cutting. Neutral
Marriage & Civil
Partnership
Please see cross
cutting. Neutral
Pregnancy &
Maternity
Please see cross
cutting. Neutral
Race Please see cross
cutting. Neutral
Religion and Belief Please see cross
cutting. Neutral
Sexual Orientation Please see cross
cutting. Neutral
Actions
Policy has a negative impact on an equality group,but is still to be implemented,
please provide justification for this.
There is the potential for 3 FTE to be displaced. A fair process would be undertaken in line
with the Council's policies.
Will the impact of the policy be monitored and reported on an ongoing bases?
Yes
Q7 What is you recommendation for this policy?
Intoduce
Please provide a meaningful summary of how you have reached the
recommendation

Page 169

EIA 668 details impact on staff. Three staff in a current structure of 22.14 FTE, will be
potentially displaced from the structure. There are: 2 out of 3 staff are women and this
could therefore affect women more; 1 out of staff being 60 - 65 and this could heightened
concerns about being displaced, as evidence suggests that those over 50 find it more
difficult to regain employment.

Page 170

AssessmentNo 669 Owner dmain
Resource Transformation Service/Establishment Budget CCF
 
First Name Surname Job title
Head Officer Amanda Graham Chief Officer
(include job titles/organisation)
Members Stephen Daly - Citizen Services David Main - Library Services
 
(Please note: the word 'policy' is used as shorthand for stategy policy
function or financial decision)
Policy Title CCF 19 Budget options - Review of school library provision
 
The aim, objective,purpose and intended out come of policy
Currently, there is four-day-a-week staffed library provision across most of
West Dunbartonshire’s five secondary schools, with one school operating
five days and another three days. The service has a workforce of 4.1 FTE
librarians. Under this proposal, the service would operate part-time and on
days when librarians were not present, the space could be utilised for
lessons with teaching staff, or could be supported by senior student
volunteers at lunchtimes.
 
 
Service/Partners/Stakeholders/service users involved in the
development and/or implementation of policy.
Library Services
Does the proposals involve the procurement of any goods or
services? Yes
If yes please confirm that you have contacted our
procurement services to discuss your requirements. No
SCREENING
You must indicate if there is any relevance to the four areas
Duty to eliminate discrimination (E), advance equal
opportunities (A) or foster good relations (F) Yes
Relevance to Human Rights (HR) No
Relevance to Health Impacts (H) Yes
Relevance to Social Economic Impacts (SE) Yes
Who will be affected by this policy?
West Dunbartonshire Council residents/school library users
Who will be/has been involved in the consultation process?
Library Services
Please outline any particular need/barriers which equality groups may have in
relation to this policy list evidence you are using to support this and whether there
is any negative impact on particular groups.
 
Needs Evidence Impact
Age
The Council must
not discriminate in
the way it provided
services.
As people approach
secondary school
age, public library
use tends to drop
unless encouraged
and supported
during school.
Reducing the school
library provision
negatively impacts
young people
accessing services
and activities
specifically designed

Page 171

to support their
educational and
personal
development.
Cross Cutting
It is important that
the Council takes
account of how
factors might
interact.
Other Council
proposals may
further impact
young people who
are experiencing
hardship.
Requiring users to
travel greater
distances to access
support may present
new barriers (e.g.
bus timetables, fares
and stop locations).
Disability
The council has a
legal duty to make
its services
accessible to
disabled people, this
is both proactively
('Anticipatory') and
also requires
Reasonable
Adjustments.
People with mobility
issues may
experience barriers
to accessing Council
services located in
unsuitable buildings.
Extra-curricular
wellbeing support is
provided by school
libraries, including
as a safe and trusted
space during the
school day to
explore independent
personal
development. This
option would reduce
the ability for young
people with
disabilities to access
the school library
space in times of
need.
Social & Economic
Impact
The Council has a
focus on reducing
poverty.
Library services
address many issues
associated with
poverty and the
cost-of-living,
including offering
free internet access
and free reading
material.
Reductions to school
libraries will likely
lead to increases in
social and digital
exclusion for pupils
experiencing
hardship.
Opportunities
designed to prevent
disrupted learning
will be reduced,
leading to a potential
decrease in
attainment.
Sex
The Council needs to
consider impacts of
staff and service
users.
All school library co-
ordinator positions
are currently held by
female staff.
Any reductions in
numbers of staff are
more likely to be
experienced by
women because of
workforce
composition.
Gender Reassign
The Council must
not discriminate in
the way it provided
services.
Young people of
secondary school
age are at a crucial
stage in their
Young people make
use of school library
services to explore
their own

Page 172

personal
development and
require safe trusted
spaces in which to
explore their own
feelings in non-
judgmental settings
away from peers.
development in a
safe and non-
judgmental way.
Library items are
often ordered
discreetly for young
people to read
privately.
Health
Health and
wellbeing is focus
area in the Council's
Strategic Plan.
Reading is proven to
contribute to
positive mental
health.
Reducing the
opportunity for
young people to
access a school
library may
contribute to
adverse mental
health issues for
some service users.
Human Rights
Marriage & Civil
Partnership
Pregnancy &
Maternity
Race
The Council must
not discriminate in
the way it provided
services.
People who do not
speak English well
may experience
barriers to accessing
support.
School library
services seek to offer
tailored reading
material for
individuals - such as
graphic novels in
foreign languages.
Without this
resource, reading
material will more
likely be limited to
popular titles in
English only.
Religion and Belief
Sexual Orientation
The Council must
not discriminate in
the way it provided
services.
Young people of
secondary school
age are at a crucial
stage in their
personal
development and
require safe trusted
spaces in which to
explore their own
feelings in non-
judgmental settings
away from peers.
Young people make
use of school library
services to explore
their own
development in a
safe and non-
judgmental way.
Library items are
often ordered
discreetly for young
people to read
privately.
Actions
Policy has a negative impact on an equality group,but is still to be implemented,
please provide justification for this.

Page 173

The school library service not only exists to issue books and other materials to pupils
across the five mainstream secondary schools, it also supports literacy, personal
development, critical thinking and provides space and support for study and projects. It is
integral to supporting the curriculum in schools. Reducing the school library offer to a
part-time only service enables these vital functions to continue while generating a saving
to the Council at a time of significant budget pressure.
Will the impact of the policy be monitored and reported on an ongoing bases?
Yes
Q7 What is you recommendation for this policy?
Intoduce
Please provide a meaningful summary of how you have reached the
recommendation
EIA 669 details potential impacts for young people, especially those who are currently
socially and digitally excluded due to hardship from poverty. These should be balanced
against the likely impact of full service closure. With existing school library provision on a
part-time basis in four out of five secondary schools, reducing the school library provision
to part-time across the authority enables savings to be generated while retaining these
vital functions.

Page 174

AssessmentNo 670 Owner dmain
Resource Transformation Service/Establishment Budget CCF
 
First Name Surname Job title
Head Officer Amanda Graham Chief Officer, CCF
(include job titles/organisation)
Members Stephen Daly, Citizen Services David Main, Libraries
 
(Please note: the word 'policy' is used as shorthand for stategy
policy function or financial decision)
Policy Title CCF 18 Budget options - Reduce Library Opening hours
 
The aim, objective,purpose and intended out come of policy
Library hours
 
 
Service/Partners/Stakeholders/service users involved in the
development and/or implementation of policy.
Library service
Does the proposals involve the procurement of any goods or
services? Yes
If yes please confirm that you have contacted our
procurement services to discuss your requirements. No
SCREENING
You must indicate if there is any relevance to the four areas
Duty to eliminate discrimination (E), advance equal
opportunities (A) or foster good relations (F) Yes
Relevance to Human Rights (HR) No
Relevance to Health Impacts (H) Yes
Relevance to Social Economic Impacts (SE) Yes
Who will be affected by this policy?
West Dunbartonshire Council residents/library users
Who will be/has been involved in the consultation process?
Library Services
Please outline any particular need/barriers which equality groups may have in
relation to this policy list evidence you are using to support this and whether
there is any negative impact on particular groups.
 
Needs Evidence Impact
Age
The Council must
not discriminate in
the way it provided
services
Older people are
more likely to
experience mobility
issues and social
isolation.
Reductions to
library opening
hours will further
reduce opportunities
for social interaction
by those already
isolated.
Cross Cutting
It is important that
the Council takes
account of how
factors might
interact.
Separate proposals
(CCF01 &CCF02)
may further reduce
access to library
services.
Requiring users to
travel greater
distances to access
support may present
new barriers (e.g.
bus timetables, bus

Page 175

fares and stop
locations).
Disability
The council has a
legal duty to make
its services
accessible to
disabled people, this
is both proactively
('Anticipatory') and
also requires
Reasonable
Adjustments.
People with mobility
issues may
experience barriers
to accessing Council
services located in
unsuitable buildings.
Reduced library
opening hours will
further reduce the
ability for some
residents to access
Council services in
person. Virtual
platforms will not be
suitable for all,
resulting in some
residents becoming
further isolated from
accessing support.
Social & Economic
Impact
The Council has a
focus on reducing
poverty.
Library services
address many issues
associated with
poverty and the
cost-of-living,
including offering
free internet access,
free reading
material, free and
welcoming warm
spaces, free
community support
and free educational
activities.
Reduced opening
hours will further
limit the opportunity
for those
experiencing social
isolation and/or
hardship to access
support. As physical
routes to support
are reduced, those
who are digitally
excluded will face
more obstacles in
accessing assistance.
Sex
The Council needs to
consider impacts of
staff and service
users.
75% of staff are
female. Research
shows that women
have on average less
access to private
transport (CARS)
than men.
Any reductions in
numbers of staff are
more likely to be
experienced by
women because of
workforce
composition.
Gender Reassign
Health
Health and
wellbeing is focus
area in the Council's
Strategic Plan.
Reading is proven to
contribute to
positive mental
health. Libraries also
act as an information
and collection point
for some community
health services.
Reduced opening
hours will further
limit the
opportunities
available for
community support
groups to meet and
for health
information to be
accessed. Reductions
to the library offer
may contribute to
adverse mental
health issues for
some service users.
Human Rights

Page 176

Marriage & Civil
Partnership
Pregnancy &
Maternity
Race
The Council must
not discriminate in
the way it provided
services.
People who do not
speak English well
may experience
barriers to accessing
support.
The reduction of
local signposting to
sources of support
will likely negatively
impact those who do
not speak English as
a first language.
Requiring users to
access services
online will likely
introduce new
barriers to this
group.
Religion and Belief
Sexual Orientation
Actions
Policy has a negative impact on an equality group,but is still to be implemented,
please provide justification for this.
Libraries support literacy and digital inclusion, providing access to books and other
reading materials alongside signposting to other Council services via the integration
of citizen services. They are used by a number of services including Working4U and
CL&Dto provide outreach and also provide a safe space for people who are vulnerable
and isolated. Reducing the opening hours of libraries retains these vital services while
generating savings for the Council.
Will the impact of the policy be monitored and reported on an ongoing bases?
Yes
Q7 What is you recommendation for this policy?
Intoduce
Please provide a meaningful summary of how you have reached the
recommendation
EIA 670 details negative potential impacts for older people, women, disabled people
and for those experiencing social isolation and/or hardship from poverty. While
physical visits to libraries have experienced a long-term national trend of slow decline
over the past decade, West Dunbartonshire Libraries continue to see a steady increase
in physical visitors since the pandemic as residents continue to return. Online use of
digital library resources remains extremely high and would likely to continue to do so,
however it is important to recognise this only represents use from those who are
digitally connected at present. Further reductions to library opening hours will likely
further widen the digital exclusion gap with a significant reduction in community
internet provision. However, reducing library opening hours as opposed to closures
mean that residents can still access these vital services, while generating a required
saving for Council.

Page 177

AssessmentNo 672 Owner cenglish
Resource
Regeneration,
Environment
and Growth
Service/Establishment HE Budget
 
First Name Surname Job title
Head Officer Clare English Communities Manager
(include job titles/organisation)
Members Clare English - Communities Manager
 
(Please note: the word 'policy' is used as shorthand for stategy policy function or
financial decision)
Policy Title HE05 Reduce Community budgeting by 10%
 
The aim, objective,purpose and intended out come of policy
Community Budgeting is a part of West Dunbartonshire's response to Participatory
Budgeting. It is a method of allocating small grants to community groups and
organisations where the decision on which groups receive funding is made by local
people through voting. Community Budgeting contributes to the requirement of the
Council to direct 1% of its budget through a Participatory Budgeting process, it is
also an element of the Mainstreaming project within the Community Empowerment
delivery plan Previous phases of Community Budgeting voting took place in
community locations where people had the opportunity to gather and vote in
person for the projects they saw as of most value. This savings option will reduce
the £60,000 budget available by 10% to £54,000.
 
 
Service/Partners/Stakeholders/service users involved in the development
and/or implementation of policy.
The Communities Team, and Finance.
Does the proposals involve the procurement of any goods or
services? Yes
If yes please confirm that you have contacted our procurement
services to discuss your requirements. No
SCREENING
You must indicate if there is any relevance to the four areas
Duty to eliminate discrimination (E), advance equal
opportunities (A) or foster good relations (F) Yes
Relevance to Human Rights (HR) Yes
Relevance to Health Impacts (H) Yes
Relevance to Social Economic Impacts (SE) Yes
Who will be affected by this policy?
This budget reduction would impact on the Council’s Community Empowerment ambitions which
have been developed in response to the Community Empowerment (Scotland) Act 2015. The
Community budgeting process allows for increased levels of community participation and resources
are directed to communities where it is most needed. Community budgeting has a high social return
on investment. It also contributes to the requirement for the Council to direct 1% of its budgets
through a Participatory Budgeting process.
Who will be/has been involved in the consultation process?
The equalities impact assessment has been produced as part of the process for assessing the
potential savings options being explored by the Council. The consultation has included elected
members and senior council officials

Page 178

Please outline any particular need/barriers which equality groups may have in relation to
this policy list evidence you are using to support this and whether there is any negative
impact on particular groups.
 
Needs Evidence Impact
Age
Equality outcome on
increasing
participation of
younger people.
There is a need for
community groups
in West
Dunbartonshire to
apply or source
funding to deliver
programmes.
Evidenced that less
than 5% of young
people participated
in the CB voting.
Volume of groups
applying across
Phase 4 = 42% and
Phase 5 = 28%.
Recovery from covid
for young people.
Digital Exclusion(see
EIA281)-WDC
Digital Policy-
Curriculum for
Excellence-
Empowerment
Strategy- Young
people’s National
outcomes:1-7-
Rights of the Child
Potential to have a
negative impact if
the Council
ambitions to direct
1% of eligible
budgets through a
participatory
budgeting process
are not realised.
Cross Cutting
The Council has
adopted an equality
outcome.
Participation in
Community
Budgeting in terms
of BME people,
disabled people and
younger people We
need to be aware of
intersectionaility.
People can
simultaneous be
members of more
than one
disadvantaged
group, which can
multiply negative
outcomes.
Potential to have a
negative impact if
the Council
ambitions to direct
1% of eligible
budgets through a
participatory
budgeting process
are not realised.
Disability
Equality outcome on
increasing
participation of
disabled people We
have a duty to make
services accessible
to disabled people
Evidence suggests
disabled people are
more likely to be
socially isolated, and
less likely to be
involved in
community life than
non disabled people.
In previous phases
of CB groups
supporting disability
issues were
successful in gaining
funding and were
represented at
voting events. In
2019 85% of homes
in WD had home
Potential to have a
negative impact if
the Council
ambitions to direct
1% of eligible
budgets through a
participatory
budgeting process
are not realised.

Page 179

access to the
internet available.
This is only slightly
below the Scottish
average. However,
fewer older and
disabled people use
technology than the
general population.
Social & Economic
Impact
There is a need to
ensure that our
approach to
Community
Budgeting
empowers local
communities. It is a
democratic method
of distributing funds
to meet local needs.
Previous phases of
CB have supported
projects addressing
low income and
poverty in
communities. The
impact of theses has
been to increase
income (through
training
opportunities,
increased benefit
take up, community
enterprise, social
investment etc.),
reduced expenditure
(debt advice,
transport, local food
production) and
through sharing and
redistributing
resources,
communities can be
impacted by
Community
Budgeting.
Potential to have a
negative impact if
the Council
ambitions to direct
1% of eligible
budgets through a
participatory
budgeting process
are not realised.
Sex
Engagement in
community activities
varies across age
and gender.
There is no
significant
differences between
men and women
using on line
activity.
Potential to have a
negative impact if
the Council
ambitions to direct
1% of eligible
budgets through a
participatory
budgeting process
are not realised.
Gender Reassign
Those undergoing or
have undergone
gender
reassignment can be
particularlyexcluded
from social and civil
society, it is
important that
people have an
LGBT+ community
group
Facebook.com/Vale
pride2019, WDC
Youth Council
inaugural meet 2019
highlighted Youth
Empowerment
/LGBT as one of top
Potential to have a
negative impact if
the Council
ambitions to direct
1% of eligible
budgets through a
participatory
budgeting process
are not realised.

Page 180

opportunity to
participate in things
that might effect
them.
4priorities for YP.
Health
Being able to
participate, being
represented and
feeling able to make
an impact on where
you live can have a
positive effect on
both mental and
physical health.
Our physical and
social environment
is the framework in
which our lives take
place and,
depending on
circumstances, it can
provide us with
opportunities or
limit our potential
(Scottish National
Performance
Framework). In
previous phases of
CB changes to the
physical
environment within
communities has
featured in several
successful bids.
There is evidence of
the positive impact
these changes made
to the communities
who implemented
these.
Potential to have a
negative impact if
the Council
ambitions to direct
1% of eligible
budgets through a
participatory
budgeting process
are not realised.
Human Rights
Relevant under core
civil rights, such as
the right to respect
for private and
family life (Article 8
of the Convention),
the right to freedom
of expression
(Article 10) and the
right to education
(Article 2 of Protocol
No. 1). The rights of
the Child. Article 21.
Awareness of
Human Rights as
part of everyday life
is low. Therefore its
relevance nationally
has received
increased focus from
the Scottish
Government on
giving Human Rights
a more central place
Potential to have a
negative impact if
the Council
ambitions to direct
1% of eligible
budgets through a
participatory
budgeting process
are not realised.
Marriage & Civil
Partnership
This area cross cuts
with sex, and sexual
orientation
This area cross cuts
with sex, and sexual
orientation
Potential to have a
negative impact if
the Council
ambitions to direct
1% of eligible
budgets through a
participatory
budgeting process
are not realised.
Pregnancy & This area cross cuts Primary care Potential to have a

Page 181

Maternity
with consideration
under sex Work
needs to take
account of the needs,
of pregnant women
similar to those
under 'sex'
responsibilities falls
predominately upon
women. Women's
available time is can
therefore be
restricted. However,
child care and other
care responsibilities
maintains a link to
community matters
through school etc.,
negative impact if
the Council
ambitions to direct
1% of eligible
budgets through a
participatory
budgeting process
are not realised.
Race
We have a duty to
make funding
available to all.
Equality outcome on
increasing
participation of BME
groups within our
local authority.
Evidence from
Scottish Social
Attitudes surveys
and other sources,
suggests that people
who have contact
with people from
other groups are less
likely to hold
negative views on
those groups.
Participating in CB
could help improve
understanding
across cultures.
Local Driver
Equality outcomes
adhered to. Groups
representing the
BME communities
have been
underrepresented at
previous CB phases.
Potential to have a
negative impact if
the Council
ambitions to direct
1% of eligible
budgets through a
participatory
budgeting process
are not realised.
Religion and Belief
Faith groups have
been represented
and successful in
previous phases of
CB. , due diligence is
taken to make sure
there is no chance of
a clash with
significant festivals
or times for worship.
If there were to be a
defined community
event during CB6,
due diligence will be
taken to allow all
religious beliefs
participation to suit
all.
Potential to have a
negative impact if
the Council
ambitions to direct
1% of eligible
budgets through a
participatory
budgeting process
are not realised.
Sexual Orientation
Need to support
inclusion in civil
society.
Evidence suggest
that LGBTQ+ people
can be more socially
isolated and more at
risk of
discrimination.
Evidence that
LGBTQ+ people are
more likely to be
Potential to have a
negative impact if
the Council
ambitions to direct
1% of eligible
budgets through a
participatory
budgeting process
are not realised.

Page 182

income deprived.
Evidence suggests-
that there are still
barriers to engaging
with LGBTQ+ people
Actions
Policy has a negative impact on an equality group,but is still to be implemented, please
provide justification for this.
Community budgeting activity will continue the activity will be in the main a digital experience, this
may exclude some residents from the protected categories. The severity of the negative impact will
also be dependent on the decisions regarding the savings option that the Council makes on the
future structure of the Communities Team HE04.
Will the impact of the policy be monitored and reported on an ongoing bases?
Yes,teh impact of the policy will be subject to the ongoing participatory budgeting processes, regular
meetings will be ongoing by the planning sub group through out the financial year. The element of
Coproduction also offers opportunity for scrutiny by officers and community and this will be built
into our practice. Monitoring during the application process will include identifying any funding
gaps from groups who represent equalities communities. Efforts will be made by staff and partners
to encourage and support participation from these communities and to support access to external
funding. If in addition the decision is also made to reduce the Communities Team by 50% there will
be a significant negative impact on Communities across West Dunbartonshire, including community
participation and resources being directed to communities where it is most needed, this would be
monitored through Community consultation and reported annually.
Q7 What is you recommendation for this policy?
Pilot
Please provide a meaningful summary of how you have reached the recommendation
EIA 672 details potential impacts of the option HE05and if taken in conjunction with HE04 Option 1:
which will result in a 50% reduction in staffing and a potential 70% reduction in services delivered
including Community budgeting as part of the Participatory Budgeting process. This will have a
severe equalities impact on West Dunbartonshire residents and their Communities. This budget
reduction would impact on the Council’s Community Empowerment ambitions which have been
developed in response to the Community Empowerment (Scotland) Act 2015. The Community
budgeting process allows for increased levels of community participation and resources are directed
to communities where it is most needed. Community budgeting has a high social return on
investment.

Page 183

AssessmentNo 673 Owner cenglish
Resource
Regeneration,
Environment
and Growth
Service/Establishment HE Budget
 
First Name Surname Job title
Head Officer Clare English Communities Manager
(include job titles/organisation)
Members Clare English - Communities Manager
 
(Please note: the word 'policy' is used as shorthand for stategy policy function
or financial decision)
Policy Title HE13 Reduce the level of funding available to Community Councils
 
The aim, objective,purpose and intended out come of policy
The Community Empowerment (Scotland) Act of 2015 has given Community
Councils new legal powers and responsibilities, such as the ability to request
information and assets from public bodies, and to be consulted on certain
decisions that affect their community. The act also requires public bodies to
consider the views of Community Councils when making decisions that may
impact the local community. Community Councils are also empowered to make
some decisions that affect their community. At present the total £25,000 budget
available is allocated to Community Councils as a flat rate £500 administration
grant plus a per capita allowance minus insurance costs, distributing the
remaining budget across active Community Councils, the distribution in 22/23
equates to £0.04 per resident. This option reduces the budget available to
Community Councils from £25,000 to £14,000 This is achieved by increasing the
administration grant from £500 to £750 and reducing the per capita allowance by
75%, £0.01 per head of population. There are also potential further year on year
savings as the per capita figure is set and the budget is based on all 17 Community
Council areas having an active council.
 
 
Service/Partners/Stakeholders/service users involved in the development
and/or implementation of policy.
Communities, associated Business Partners
Does the proposals involve the procurement of any goods or
services? No
If yes please confirm that you have contacted our
procurement services to discuss your requirements. No
SCREENING
You must indicate if there is any relevance to the four areas
Duty to eliminate discrimination (E), advance equal
opportunities (A) or foster good relations (F) Yes
Relevance to Human Rights (HR) Yes
Relevance to Health Impacts (H) Yes
Relevance to Social Economic Impacts (SE) Yes
Who will be affected by this policy?
17 Community Council areas
Who will be/has been involved in the consultation process?
The equalities impact assessment has been produced as part of the process for assessing the
potential savings options being explored by the Council. The consultation has included elected

Page 184

members and senior council officials
Please outline any particular need/barriers which equality groups may have in relation to
this policy list evidence you are using to support this and whether there is any negative
impact on particular groups.
 
Needs Evidence Impact
Age
CLD services are
targeted at children,
young people and
adults who are
experiencing
disadvantage
accessing services
and often have
limited resources.
This includes lone
parents, disengaged
young people, and
people with limited
qualifications. pre-
pandemic WD had
higher levels of
youth
unemployment than
Scotland.
27.4% of children
across West
Dunbartonshire are
living with poverty.
Children born into
poverty are more
likely to experience
mental health
problems. The
evidence from the
pandemic economic
impacts to date
shows that young
people (aged 16-24
years) have been
disproportionately
affected. All Age UK
have noted that
there has not been
as big an upsurge in
the use of digital
technology among
older people since
2020 as is assumed
by some.
Negative impact -
reduced influence
local decision-
making processes,
also impacting on
the opportunities
available to
equalities groups in
the area.
Cross Cutting
Intersectionality and
multiple
discrimination need
to be taken into
account. Need to
progress Councils
equality outcomes
and aspirations.
Need to support
Council BSL action
plan.
WD has higher than
Scottish and UK
levels of deprivation
and child poverty
which has multiple
negative outcomes
for people living in
poverty and with
limited access to
CLD services. Living
in poverty is a
significant
determinant of both
physical and mental
health. Many of the
groups who were
already struggling
with poverty have
borne the brunt of
the pandemic and
the cost of living
crisis and things will
get more
Negative impact -
reduced influence
local decision-
making processes,
also impacting on
the opportunities
available to
equalities groups in
the area.

Page 185

challenging.
Disability
We have legal duty
to ensure that
services are
accessible to
disabled people. This
duty is anticipatory.
CLD services are
open to all however
a particular risk
group are those with
disabilities or long
term health issues.
Risk of poverty is
much higher for
disabled people.
Older people are
more likely to be
disabled than
younger people, and
only 17% of people
who eventually have
impairment are born
with this. WDC is
committed to
ensuring BSL users
are supported to
access services, so
that they can
improve their
quality of life. The
Councils BSL Action
Plan is relevant in
terms of service
accessibility.
Disabled people
more likely to be in
poverty. WD has a
higher percentage of
disabled people than
Scotland on this
measure. 23% of
those who live in a
household with a
disabled household
member live in
poverty. Disabled
people are more
reliant on public
transport
Negative impact -
reduced influence
local decision-
making processes,
also impacting on
the opportunities
available to
equalities groups in
the area.
Social & Economic
Impact
Many economically
disadvantaged
people in WD have
poorer health
outcomes, have
lower levels of
qualifications and
fewer qualifications
at all levels
compared to
Scotland, are more
likely to be digitally
excluded. Poverty
impacts peoples
ability to feed,
clothe, heat their
homes for
themselves and their
COVID has had a
greater negative
impact on already
disadvantaged
groups. Cost of living
crisis is going to
have a major impact
on people already
living in poverty. It
will push more
people into poverty
as fuel costs, food
bills increase.
Negative impact -
reduced influence
local decision-
making processes,
also impacting on
the opportunities
available to
equalities groups in
the area.

Page 186

families.
Sex
Women face
multiple
discrimination,
including disabled
women, women
from Black and
Ethnic Minority
(BME) communities,
refugee and asylum
seekers, lesbian,
bisexual and Trans
(LGBT+) women,
and older women. In
the preCOVID-19
labour market,
women were
unequal in pay,
participation and
progression due to
drivers including
occupational
segregation, job
valuation,
discrimination, and
time available to
work. 38% of single
women with
children are living in
poverty. In 2019-20
4 out of 5 victims of
domestic abuse were
female. Males are 2.6
x more likely to die
by suicide in
Scotland than
females. Gender-
based violence is
experienced
unequally, with 17%
of women and 7% of
men having
experienced the use
of force from a
partner or ex-
partner at some
point in their lives.
The gap between
women’s and men’s
earning is bigger in
WD than for
Scotland. WD
domestic violence
rates are higher than
Scotland.
Negative impact -
reduced influence
local decision-
making processes,
also impacting on
the opportunities
available to
equalities groups in
the area.
Gender Reassign
Services need to be
inclusive and
accessible. Services
ensure
confidentiality of
information for all
LGBTQIA+ people
more likely to be
income deprived.
Going through a
gender
reassignment means
Negative impact -
reduced influence
local decision-
making processes,
also impacting on
the opportunities

Page 187

users. People who
identify as
LGBTQIA+ have
higher rates of
common mental
health problems and
lower wellbeing
than heterosexual
people.
legally changing
almost every
recorded document
that has your birth
name and given
gender on it. This
can include things
like bank details.
available to
equalities groups in
the area.
Health
In the most affluent
areas of Scotland,
men experience 23.8
more years of good
health and women
experience 22.6
more years
compared to the
most deprived areas.
The life expectancy
of people with
learning disabilities
is substantially
shorter than the
Scottish average.
WD is an area of
substantial
deprivation and
health outcomes for
WD compared to
Scotland are a
concern. Longer
term effects of
COVID 19 are
unknown. Poverty
has huge impacts on
health inequalities.
Negative impact -
reduced influence
local decision-
making processes,
also impacting on
the opportunities
available to
equalities groups in
the area.
Human Rights
WDC needs to up
hold human rights.
The Council is a duty
bearer. UNCRC -
young peoples
rights.
Scottish Human
rights Commission
Human Rights
Report Card 2022
UNCRC - CLD staff
are part of the
working group for
WDC.
Negative impact -
reduced influence
local decision-
making processes,
also impacting on
the opportunities
available to
equalities groups in
the area.
Marriage & Civil
Partnership N/A N/A N/A
Pregnancy &
Maternity
Poverty is both a
cause and a
consequence of teen
pregnancy. More
than 60% of young,
unmarried mothers
live in households
that qualify as being
in poverty.
Young lone parents
are more likely to be
income deprived.
vittana.org/teen
pregnancy- and
poverty
Negative impact -
reduced influence
local decision-
making processes,
also impacting on
the opportunities
available to
equalities groups in
the area.
Race
Risk of poverty is
much higher for
black minority
ethnic people
compared to white
people. WDC has
comprehensive
translation and
interpreter services
Those from minority
ethnic groups are
more likely to live in
deprived areas and
in poverty. People
from Black groups
are twice as likely to
be unemployed as
people from white
Negative impact -
reduced influence
local decision-
making processes,
also impacting on
the opportunities
available to
equalities groups in
the area.

Page 188

which service users
and providers can
access as required.
communities. Child
poverty is higher in
BME groups. There
is increasing ethnic
diversity in WD.
Religion and Belief
Services need to be
inclusive and
accessible. Services
ensure
confidentiality of
information for all
users.
There is increasing
religious diversity in
West
Dunbartonshire.
Negative impact -
reduced influence
local decision-
making processes,
also impacting on
the opportunities
available to
equalities groups in
the area.
Sexual Orientation
Services need to be
inclusive and
accessible. Services
ensure
confidentiality of
information for all
users
LGBTQIA+ people
are likely to earn
less than
heterosexual people
and are more likely
to live in deprived
areas.
Negative impact -
reduced influence
local decision-
making processes,
also impacting on
the opportunities
available to
equalities groups in
the area.
Actions
Policy has a negative impact on an equality group,but is still to be implemented, please
provide justification for this.
The options has been produced as a direct result of the need to identify potential savings that will
contribute to the Council budget deficit. The impact of this option: Reduced community
engagement: Community Councils play a key role in engaging with local residents and
representing their views and concerns to local authorities. With reduced funding, their ability to
carry out that role may be impacted. Limited ability to advocate for community needs: Community
Councils use funding to carry out research and gather evidence to support their advocacy efforts
on behalf of the community in the form of locality place and neighbourhood plans. With reduced
funding, their ability to carry out that role may be impacted. Decreased ability to organise
community events: Community Councils often use funding to organise community events and
meetings. With reduced funding, their ability to carry out that role may be impacted. Loss of local
decision making: Community Councils play a key role in local decision making, and with reduced
funding, they may be unable to effectively participate in the process. This could lead to decisions
being made without adequate input from the community and potentially lead to decisions that do
not reflect the needs and wants of local residents. Overall, reducing funding for Community
Councils in West Dunbartonshire could impact negatively on community engagement and
representation, limited ability to advocate for community needs, decreased ability to organise
community events, difficulty in maintaining and improving community infrastructure, and loss of
local decision making. The option has not been progressed until elected member approval is
secured. The new scheme of Establishment also allows for an annual funding review, stating;
“West Dunbartonshire Council will provide a Community Council grant to assist with the operating
costs of the Community Council. The grant will consist of a flat rate and an additional per capita
allowance. The applicable amounts will be reviewed on an annual basis”. The reduction is also
bringing the West Dunbartonshire administration allowance in line with other local authorities
offering a minimum flat rate, to be determined periodically , which includes an additional
minimum 1p per head of population.

Page 189

Will the impact of the policy be monitored and reported on an ongoing bases?
This will depend on the decisions regarding the savings option that the Council makes. If the
decision is to reduce the Communities Team by 50% there will be a significant negative impact on
Communities across West Dunbartonshire, and the ability to fully monitor the impact of a reduced
budget to Community councils it would therefore be monitored through Community consultation
and reported annually.
Q7 What is you recommendation for this policy?
Intoduce
Please provide a meaningful summary of how you have reached the recommendation
EIA 673 details potential impacts of the option HE13and if taken in conjunction with HE04 Option
1: which will result in a 50% reduction in staffing and a potential 70% reduction in services
delivered including support to Community Councils. This combination of options will have a
severe equalities impact on West Dunbartonshire residents and their Communities. Taking HE013
as a singular option a reduction in funding would mean that Community Councils are less able to
engage with equalities groups, reducing the opportunities for these groups to influence local
decision-making processes. This could have negative consequences for marginalised communities,
as their voices may be less heard and their needs less well understood. Additionally, Community
Councils play a crucial role in supporting local community initiatives and projects, which can have
particular relevance for equalities groups. A reduction in funding could mean that these projects
are less likely to go ahead or be successful, impacting on the opportunities available to equalities
groups in the area. In summary, a reduction in funding to Community Councils could have a
significant impact on equalities groups, reducing their ability to engage with decision-makers and
potentially limiting their opportunities for community participation and collaboration.

Page 190

AssessmentNo 673 Owner cenglish
Resource
Regeneration,
Environment
and Growth
Service/Establishment HE Budget
 
First Name Surname Job title
Head Officer Clare English Communities Manager
(include job titles/organisation)
Members Clare English - Communities Manager
 
(Please note: the word 'policy' is used as shorthand for stategy policy function
or financial decision)
Policy Title HE13 Reduce the level of funding available to Community Councils
 
The aim, objective,purpose and intended out come of policy
The Community Empowerment (Scotland) Act of 2015 has given Community
Councils new legal powers and responsibilities, such as the ability to request
information and assets from public bodies, and to be consulted on certain
decisions that affect their community. The act also requires public bodies to
consider the views of Community Councils when making decisions that may
impact the local community. Community Councils are also empowered to make
some decisions that affect their community. At present the total £25,000 budget
available is allocated to Community Councils as a flat rate £500 administration
grant plus a per capita allowance minus insurance costs, distributing the
remaining budget across active Community Councils, the distribution in 22/23
equates to £0.04 per resident. This option reduces the budget available to
Community Councils from £25,000 to £14,000 This is achieved by increasing the
administration grant from £500 to £750 and reducing the per capita allowance by
75%, £0.01 per head of population. There are also potential further year on year
savings as the per capita figure is set and the budget is based on all 17 Community
Council areas having an active council.
 
 
Service/Partners/Stakeholders/service users involved in the development
and/or implementation of policy.
Communities, associated Business Partners
Does the proposals involve the procurement of any goods or
services? No
If yes please confirm that you have contacted our
procurement services to discuss your requirements. No
SCREENING
You must indicate if there is any relevance to the four areas
Duty to eliminate discrimination (E), advance equal
opportunities (A) or foster good relations (F) Yes
Relevance to Human Rights (HR) Yes
Relevance to Health Impacts (H) Yes
Relevance to Social Economic Impacts (SE) Yes
Who will be affected by this policy?
17 Community Council areas
Who will be/has been involved in the consultation process?
The equalities impact assessment has been produced as part of the process for assessing the
potential savings options being explored by the Council. The consultation has included elected

Page 191

members and senior council officials
Please outline any particular need/barriers which equality groups may have in relation to
this policy list evidence you are using to support this and whether there is any negative
impact on particular groups.
 
Needs Evidence Impact
Age
CLD services are
targeted at children,
young people and
adults who are
experiencing
disadvantage
accessing services
and often have
limited resources.
This includes lone
parents, disengaged
young people, and
people with limited
qualifications. pre-
pandemic WD had
higher levels of
youth
unemployment than
Scotland.
27.4% of children
across West
Dunbartonshire are
living with poverty.
Children born into
poverty are more
likely to experience
mental health
problems. The
evidence from the
pandemic economic
impacts to date
shows that young
people (aged 16-24
years) have been
disproportionately
affected. All Age UK
have noted that
there has not been
as big an upsurge in
the use of digital
technology among
older people since
2020 as is assumed
by some.
Negative impact -
reduced influence
local decision-
making processes,
also impacting on
the opportunities
available to
equalities groups in
the area.
Cross Cutting
Intersectionality and
multiple
discrimination need
to be taken into
account. Need to
progress Councils
equality outcomes
and aspirations.
Need to support
Council BSL action
plan.
WD has higher than
Scottish and UK
levels of deprivation
and child poverty
which has multiple
negative outcomes
for people living in
poverty and with
limited access to
CLD services. Living
in poverty is a
significant
determinant of both
physical and mental
health. Many of the
groups who were
already struggling
with poverty have
borne the brunt of
the pandemic and
the cost of living
crisis and things will
get more
Negative impact -
reduced influence
local decision-
making processes,
also impacting on
the opportunities
available to
equalities groups in
the area.

Page 192

challenging.
Disability
We have legal duty
to ensure that
services are
accessible to
disabled people. This
duty is anticipatory.
CLD services are
open to all however
a particular risk
group are those with
disabilities or long
term health issues.
Risk of poverty is
much higher for
disabled people.
Older people are
more likely to be
disabled than
younger people, and
only 17% of people
who eventually have
impairment are born
with this. WDC is
committed to
ensuring BSL users
are supported to
access services, so
that they can
improve their
quality of life. The
Councils BSL Action
Plan is relevant in
terms of service
accessibility.
Disabled people
more likely to be in
poverty. WD has a
higher percentage of
disabled people than
Scotland on this
measure. 23% of
those who live in a
household with a
disabled household
member live in
poverty. Disabled
people are more
reliant on public
transport
Negative impact -
reduced influence
local decision-
making processes,
also impacting on
the opportunities
available to
equalities groups in
the area.
Social & Economic
Impact
Many economically
disadvantaged
people in WD have
poorer health
outcomes, have
lower levels of
qualifications and
fewer qualifications
at all levels
compared to
Scotland, are more
likely to be digitally
excluded. Poverty
impacts peoples
ability to feed,
clothe, heat their
homes for
themselves and their
COVID has had a
greater negative
impact on already
disadvantaged
groups. Cost of living
crisis is going to
have a major impact
on people already
living in poverty. It
will push more
people into poverty
as fuel costs, food
bills increase.
Negative impact -
reduced influence
local decision-
making processes,
also impacting on
the opportunities
available to
equalities groups in
the area.

Page 193

families.
Sex
Women face
multiple
discrimination,
including disabled
women, women
from Black and
Ethnic Minority
(BME) communities,
refugee and asylum
seekers, lesbian,
bisexual and Trans
(LGBT+) women,
and older women. In
the preCOVID-19
labour market,
women were
unequal in pay,
participation and
progression due to
drivers including
occupational
segregation, job
valuation,
discrimination, and
time available to
work. 38% of single
women with
children are living in
poverty. In 2019-20
4 out of 5 victims of
domestic abuse were
female. Males are 2.6
x more likely to die
by suicide in
Scotland than
females. Gender-
based violence is
experienced
unequally, with 17%
of women and 7% of
men having
experienced the use
of force from a
partner or ex-
partner at some
point in their lives.
The gap between
women’s and men’s
earning is bigger in
WD than for
Scotland. WD
domestic violence
rates are higher than
Scotland.
Negative impact -
reduced influence
local decision-
making processes,
also impacting on
the opportunities
available to
equalities groups in
the area.
Gender Reassign
Services need to be
inclusive and
accessible. Services
ensure
confidentiality of
information for all
LGBTQIA+ people
more likely to be
income deprived.
Going through a
gender
reassignment means
Negative impact -
reduced influence
local decision-
making processes,
also impacting on
the opportunities

Page 194

users. People who
identify as
LGBTQIA+ have
higher rates of
common mental
health problems and
lower wellbeing
than heterosexual
people.
legally changing
almost every
recorded document
that has your birth
name and given
gender on it. This
can include things
like bank details.
available to
equalities groups in
the area.
Health
In the most affluent
areas of Scotland,
men experience 23.8
more years of good
health and women
experience 22.6
more years
compared to the
most deprived areas.
The life expectancy
of people with
learning disabilities
is substantially
shorter than the
Scottish average.
WD is an area of
substantial
deprivation and
health outcomes for
WD compared to
Scotland are a
concern. Longer
term effects of
COVID 19 are
unknown. Poverty
has huge impacts on
health inequalities.
Negative impact -
reduced influence
local decision-
making processes,
also impacting on
the opportunities
available to
equalities groups in
the area.
Human Rights
WDC needs to up
hold human rights.
The Council is a duty
bearer. UNCRC -
young peoples
rights.
Scottish Human
rights Commission
Human Rights
Report Card 2022
UNCRC - CLD staff
are part of the
working group for
WDC.
Negative impact -
reduced influence
local decision-
making processes,
also impacting on
the opportunities
available to
equalities groups in
the area.
Marriage & Civil
Partnership N/A N/A N/A
Pregnancy &
Maternity
Poverty is both a
cause and a
consequence of teen
pregnancy. More
than 60% of young,
unmarried mothers
live in households
that qualify as being
in poverty.
Young lone parents
are more likely to be
income deprived.
vittana.org/teen
pregnancy- and
poverty
Negative impact -
reduced influence
local decision-
making processes,
also impacting on
the opportunities
available to
equalities groups in
the area.
Race
Risk of poverty is
much higher for
black minority
ethnic people
compared to white
people. WDC has
comprehensive
translation and
interpreter services
Those from minority
ethnic groups are
more likely to live in
deprived areas and
in poverty. People
from Black groups
are twice as likely to
be unemployed as
people from white
Negative impact -
reduced influence
local decision-
making processes,
also impacting on
the opportunities
available to
equalities groups in
the area.

Page 195

which service users
and providers can
access as required.
communities. Child
poverty is higher in
BME groups. There
is increasing ethnic
diversity in WD.
Religion and Belief
Services need to be
inclusive and
accessible. Services
ensure
confidentiality of
information for all
users.
There is increasing
religious diversity in
West
Dunbartonshire.
Negative impact -
reduced influence
local decision-
making processes,
also impacting on
the opportunities
available to
equalities groups in
the area.
Sexual Orientation
Services need to be
inclusive and
accessible. Services
ensure
confidentiality of
information for all
users
LGBTQIA+ people
are likely to earn
less than
heterosexual people
and are more likely
to live in deprived
areas.
Negative impact -
reduced influence
local decision-
making processes,
also impacting on
the opportunities
available to
equalities groups in
the area.
Actions
Policy has a negative impact on an equality group,but is still to be implemented, please
provide justification for this.
The options has been produced as a direct result of the need to identify potential savings that will
contribute to the Council budget deficit. The impact of this option: Reduced community
engagement: Community Councils play a key role in engaging with local residents and
representing their views and concerns to local authorities. With reduced funding, their ability to
carry out that role may be impacted. Limited ability to advocate for community needs: Community
Councils use funding to carry out research and gather evidence to support their advocacy efforts
on behalf of the community in the form of locality place and neighbourhood plans. With reduced
funding, their ability to carry out that role may be impacted. Decreased ability to organise
community events: Community Councils often use funding to organise community events and
meetings. With reduced funding, their ability to carry out that role may be impacted. Loss of local
decision making: Community Councils play a key role in local decision making, and with reduced
funding, they may be unable to effectively participate in the process. This could lead to decisions
being made without adequate input from the community and potentially lead to decisions that do
not reflect the needs and wants of local residents. Overall, reducing funding for Community
Councils in West Dunbartonshire could impact negatively on community engagement and
representation, limited ability to advocate for community needs, decreased ability to organise
community events, difficulty in maintaining and improving community infrastructure, and loss of
local decision making. The option has not been progressed until elected member approval is
secured. The new scheme of Establishment also allows for an annual funding review, stating;
“West Dunbartonshire Council will provide a Community Council grant to assist with the operating
costs of the Community Council. The grant will consist of a flat rate and an additional per capita
allowance. The applicable amounts will be reviewed on an annual basis”. The reduction is also
bringing the West Dunbartonshire administration allowance in line with other local authorities
offering a minimum flat rate, to be determined periodically , which includes an additional
minimum 1p per head of population.

Page 196

Will the impact of the policy be monitored and reported on an ongoing bases?
This will depend on the decisions regarding the savings option that the Council makes. If the
decision is to reduce the Communities Team by 50% there will be a significant negative impact on
Communities across West Dunbartonshire, and the ability to fully monitor the impact of a reduced
budget to Community councils it would therefore be monitored through Community consultation
and reported annually.
Q7 What is you recommendation for this policy?
Intoduce
Please provide a meaningful summary of how you have reached the recommendation
EIA 673 details potential impacts of the option HE13and if taken in conjunction with HE04 Option
1: which will result in a 50% reduction in staffing and a potential 70% reduction in services
delivered including support to Community Councils. This combination of options will have a
severe equalities impact on West Dunbartonshire residents and their Communities. Taking HE013
as a singular option a reduction in funding would mean that Community Councils are less able to
engage with equalities groups, reducing the opportunities for these groups to influence local
decision-making processes. This could have negative consequences for marginalised communities,
as their voices may be less heard and their needs less well understood. Additionally, Community
Councils play a crucial role in supporting local community initiatives and projects, which can have
particular relevance for equalities groups. A reduction in funding could mean that these projects
are less likely to go ahead or be successful, impacting on the opportunities available to equalities
groups in the area. In summary, a reduction in funding to Community Councils could have a
significant impact on equalities groups, reducing their ability to engage with decision-makers and
potentially limiting their opportunities for community participation and collaboration.

Page 197

AssessmentNo 674 Owner mlynn2
Resource
Regeneration,
Environment
and Growth
Service/Establishment Budget SD and P
 
First Name Surname Job title
Head Officer Angela Wilson Chief Officer Supply Distribution &Property
(include job titles/organisation)
Members Michelle Lynn Assets Coordinator
 
(Please note: the word 'policy' is used as shorthand for stategy policy function
or financial decision)
Policy Title SDP15 Review possible early closure of Clydebank Town Centre Office with
employees based there relocated to alternative Council accommodation
 
The aim, objective,purpose and intended out come of policy
Maximise opportunities to rationalise use of our operational Estate to deliver in
year savings on property running costs and where applicable increase revenue by
leases parts thereof whilst still delivering key services within other
accommodation within the Clydebank area. Additional revenue income will add to
the relevant budget lines for use by WDC
 
 
Service/Partners/Stakeholders/service users involved in the development
and/or implementation of policy.
WDC Staff Members/Chief Officers. Employees will be supported in moves to new
appropriate locations within accommodation in the area and no extra travel
arrangements required for staff for the purpose of this proposal are envisaged.
Does the proposals involve the procurement of any goods or
services? No
If yes please confirm that you have contacted our
procurement services to discuss your requirements. No
SCREENING
You must indicate if there is any relevance to the four areas
Duty to eliminate discrimination (E), advance equal
opportunities (A) or foster good relations (F) No
Relevance to Human Rights (HR) No
Relevance to Health Impacts (H) No
Relevance to Social Economic Impacts (SE) No
Who will be affected by this policy?
WDC staff members
Who will be/has been involved in the consultation process?
Chief Officers and Service Managers
Please outline any particular need/barriers which equality groups may have in relation to
this policy list evidence you are using to support this and whether there is any negative
impact on particular groups.
 
Needs Evidence Impact
Age N/A N/A N/A
Cross Cutting N/A N/A N/A
Disability N/A N/A N/A
Social & Economic N/A N/A N/A

Page 198

Impact
Sex N/A N/A N/A
Gender Reassign N/A N/A N/A
Health N/A N/A N/A
Human Rights N/A N/A N/A
Marriage & Civil
Partnership N/A N/A N/A
Pregnancy &
Maternity N/A N/A N/A
Race N/A N/A N/A
Religion and Belief N/A N/A N/A
Sexual Orientation N/A N/A N/A
Actions
Policy has a negative impact on an equality group,but is still to be implemented, please
provide justification for this.
Proposal does not have a negative impact with any group.
Will the impact of the policy be monitored and reported on an ongoing bases?
Yes continued monitoring of staff accommodation is monitored via SAMG and service managers
meetings.
Q7 What is you recommendation for this policy?
Please provide a meaningful summary of how you have reached the recommendation
Screening 661 concludes that the proposal is not relevant and therefore does not require an impact
assessment, as it builds on successful exists arrangements and does not introduce significant
changes.

Page 199

AssessmentNo 675 Owner mlynn2
Resource
Regeneration,
Environment
and Growth
Service/Establishment Budget SD and P
 
First Name Surname Job title
Head Officer Angela Wilson Chief Officer Supply Distribution &Property
(include job titles/organisation)
Members Michelle Lynn Assets Coordinator
 
(Please note: the word 'policy' is used as shorthand for stategy policy
function or financial decision)
Policy Title SDP16 Two week Christmas closedown bar delivery of essential services
 
The aim, objective,purpose and intended out come of policy
The purpose of this paper is to propose the closure of Council office
accommodation and depots on the days between the public holidays of
Christmas and New year whilst keeping open sufficient office capacity to
accommodate key statutory functions and essential service requirements
identified by Chief Officers. There are two options to consider (3 day closure and
6 day closure). The exact closure days will vary year on year based on when
weekends and bank holidays fall. Staff would be required to take the above dates
as part of their annual leave entitlement with the exception of those staff who
carry out functions that are required by statute or are essential during this
period.
 
 
Service/Partners/Stakeholders/service users involved in the development
and/or implementation of policy.
WDC Staff Members/Chief Officers. No extra travel arrangements required for
staff for the purpose of this proposal as accommodation will be available across
the authority for those required to carry out essential services.
Does the proposals involve the procurement of any goods or
services? No
If yes please confirm that you have contacted our
procurement services to discuss your requirements. No
SCREENING
You must indicate if there is any relevance to the four areas
Duty to eliminate discrimination (E), advance equal
opportunities (A) or foster good relations (F) No
Relevance to Human Rights (HR) No
Relevance to Health Impacts (H) No
Relevance to Social Economic Impacts (SE) No
Who will be affected by this policy?
WDC staff members
Who will be/has been involved in the consultation process?
Chief Officers and Service Managers
Please outline any particular need/barriers which equality groups may have in relation to
this policy list evidence you are using to support this and whether there is any negative
impact on particular groups.
 
Needs Evidence Impact

Page 200

Age
The council has duty
of care toward all its
workers, and in
terms of the Public
Sector Equality Duty
The Council's age
profile confirms that
the highest
percentage of
employees remain
clustered in the age
groups 50-59.
There is no specific
impact in relation to
age
Cross Cutting N/A N/A N/A
Disability
The council has duty
of care toward all its
workers, and in
terms of the Public
Sector Equality Duty
The Council's
disability profile
confirms 1.38% of
employees have
declared a disability.
There is no specific
impact in relation to
disability
Social & Economic
Impact N/A N/A N/A
Sex
The council has duty
of care toward all its
workers, and in
terms of the Public
Sector Equality Duty
It is well
documented and
reported that males
typically earn more
than females with
greater opportunity
to access
enhancements
through overtime
and allowances.
Equal Pay Audit
2017. Workforce
profile concludes
71% female and
29% male. The pay
data for 21/22 used
identifies that more
males access
overtime than
females and that
females typically
work overtime
attract the rate at
plain time, which is
due to the majority
working in a part-
time role. It is well
understood that
females are main
caregivers and
benefit from
flexibility to support
the balance of
working and home
life.
There is no specific
impact in relation to
sex
Gender Reassign
The council has duty
of care toward all its
workers, and in
The Council's
transgender profile
confirms that 0.15%
There is no specific
impact in relation to
gender reassign

Page 201

terms of the Public
Sector Equality Duty
have declared
transgener and
19.01% not
transgender and
80.71% unknown.
Health N/A N/A N/A
Human Rights N/A N/A N/A
Marriage & Civil
Partnership
The council has duty
of care toward all its
workers, and in
terms of the Public
Sector Equality Duty
No information
reported on marital
status/civil
partnership. It is
well documented
and reported that
males typically earn
more than females
with greater
opportunity to
access
enhancements
through overtime
and allowances.
There is no specific
impact in relation to
marriage &civil
partnership
Pregnancy &
Maternity
Cross-Cutting with
Sex
Cross-Cutting with
Sex
There is no specific
impact in relation to
pregnancy and
maternity
Race
The council has duty
of care toward all its
workers, and in
terms of the Public
Sector Equality Duty
The Council's race
profile confirms
0.58% of the
workforce are
BAME.
There is no specific
impact in relation to
race
Religion and Belief
The council has duty
of care toward all its
workers, and in
terms of the Public
Sector Equality Duty
The Council's
religion and belief
provide confirms
that 1.45% are
Christian, 0.89%
other and 8.56%
none.
There is no specific
impact in relation to
religion and belief.
Sexual Orientation
The council has duty
of care toward all its
workers, and in
terms of the Public
Sector Equality Duty
The Council's sexual
orientation profile
concludes that
0.81% of the
workforce have
declared LGB and
18.26% as
heterosexual with
80.41 unknown
There is no specific
impact in relation to
sexual orientation
Actions
Policy has a negative impact on an equality group,but is still to be implemented, please
provide justification for this.
Proposal does not have a negative impact with any group. Provision will be provided for any
individual who has specific requirements over the proposal period and can discuss directly with

Page 202

their line manager.
Will the impact of the policy be monitored and reported on an ongoing bases?
Yes continued monitoring of staff accommodation is monitored via SAMG and service managers
meetings.
Q7 What is you recommendation for this policy?
Please provide a meaningful summary of how you have reached the recommendation
Screening 663 concludes that the proposal is not relevant and therefore does not require an
impact assessment, as it builds on successful exists arrangements and does not introduce
significant changes.

Page 203

AssessmentNo 676 Owner amenon
Resource Transformation Service/Establishment Budget Resource
 
First Name Surname Job title
Head Officer Arun Menon Business Support Manager
(include job titles/organisation)
Members Arun Menon Laurence Slavin
 
(Please note: the word 'policy' is used as shorthand for stategy
policy function or financial decision)
Policy Title Reduce the size of the Council's Automation team
 
The aim, objective,purpose and intended out come of policy
Reduce the size of the Council's Automation team from three to two
in 2023/24 and by a further one in 2024/25. The post holders in the
automation team have a substantive post in place.
 
 
Service/Partners/Stakeholders/service users involved in the
development and/or implementation of policy.
Resources Management team and consultation with PMRG to convey
the impact of this option for any future developments and
manitainece of automations.
Does the proposals involve the procurement of any goods or
services? No
If yes please confirm that you have contacted our
procurement services to discuss your requirements. No
SCREENING
You must indicate if there is any relevance to the four areas
Duty to eliminate discrimination (E), advance equal
opportunities (A) or foster good relations (F) No
Relevance to Human Rights (HR) No
Relevance to Health Impacts (H) No
Relevance to Social Economic Impacts (SE) No
Who will be affected by this policy?
Employees in the automation team
Who will be/has been involved in the consultation process?
Staff impacted and Strategic HR and TUs
Please outline any particular need/barriers which equality groups may have in
relation to this policy list evidence you are using to support this and whether
there is any negative impact on particular groups.
 
Needs Evidence Impact
Age
Cross Cutting
Disability
Social & Economic
Impact
Sex
Gender Reassign
Health
Human Rights

Page 204

Marriage & Civil
Partnership
Pregnancy &
Maternity
Race
Religion and Belief
Sexual Orientation
Actions
Policy has a negative impact on an equality group,but is still to be
implemented, please provide justification for this.
The Council has a duty to balance the budget. There is a neutral impact as both
employees impacted will return to their substantive posts.
Will the impact of the policy be monitored and reported on an ongoing bases?
No
Q7 What is you recommendation for this policy?
Please provide a meaningful summary of how you have reached the
recommendation
The council was an early adopter of Robotic Process Automation (RPA) and one of
the first councils to deploy the technology in 2020. The solution has seen an
investment in UiPath (RPA solution) and complemented by investment in an
automation team which comprises of 1 FTE Grade 9 post and 2 FTE Grade 6 posts.
The project in the last two years has seen the deployment of a range of automation
that have supported the relevant service areas to manage workload by avoiding the
need for adding additional resource and/or delays in processing times. Despite the
challenging financial gap, it was considered prudent not to give up the programme
and stop automation altogether as that would require additional staff to compensate
for the live automations that the bot completes at present. This alternative option is
to delete one FTE grade 6 post in 2023/24 with a final remaining grade 6 post
deleted in 2024/25. This will only retain an automation lead post which will not only
restrict the development and maintenance capabilities but also resilience should the
post holder be off. Whilst alternatives for addressing this resilience will be
considered, the specialist required to develop automation does not easily present an
option to wider the knowledge pool with ease.

Page 205

AssessmentNo 677 Owner GMacfarlane2
Resource
Regeneration,
Environment
and Growth
Service/Establishment Budget R and N
 
First Name Surname Job title
Head Officer Gail Macfarlane Chief Officer - Roads &Neighbourhood
(include job titles/organisation)
Members Grounds Service
 
(Please note: the word 'policy' is used as shorthand for stategy policy
function or financial decision)
Policy Title R&N17 Reduction in grant to Environmental Trust
 
The aim, objective,purpose and intended out come of policy
To reduce the level of financial grant provided to the Environmental
Trust who carry out project management, access external funding,
deliver environmental projects and carry out maintenance activities.
The proposed financial reduction is in the region of 25% or 50%. The
25% grant reduction will reduce project management and delivery of
environmental projects with an additional impact to access external
funding. If a 50% reduction there would no project management,
delivery and external funding as all funding will be allocated to
maintenance activities.
 
 
Service/Partners/Stakeholders/service users involved in the
development and/or implementation of policy.
Grounds and Finance Services. Further to implementation communities
and visitors will be affected by reducing the potential extension and
delivery of key desire routes for access by walking and cycling.
Does the proposals involve the procurement of any goods or
services? Yes
If yes please confirm that you have contacted our
procurement services to discuss your requirements. Yes
SCREENING
You must indicate if there is any relevance to the four areas
Duty to eliminate discrimination (E), advance equal
opportunities (A) or foster good relations (F) No
Relevance to Human Rights (HR) No
Relevance to Health Impacts (H) Yes
Relevance to Social Economic Impacts (SE) Yes
Who will be affected by this policy?
The Environmental Trust and those that use and access the environmental projects
when delivered such as remote footpaths and wider active travel routes and some
playgrounds.
Who will be/has been involved in the consultation process?
The Grounds Service
Please outline any particular need/barriers which equality groups may have in
relation to this policy list evidence you are using to support this and whether
there is any negative impact on particular groups.

Page 206

Needs Evidence Impact
Age
The Council has an
equality outcome in
relation to
increasing
involvement of
younger people in
Community
Empowerment. The
Equality Act requires
that services do not
discriminate. The
West
Dunbartonshire
Environment Trust
have delivered
playgrounds which
they maintain.
Playgrounds are
accessed by younger
members of our
community
This has a potential
to have a negative
impact as a
reduction in funding
may lead to a
reduction in
playgrounds or
other new
environmental
infrastructure for
use by children that
either live in the
local authority area
or are visiting.
Cross Cutting
We need to have due
regard to general
and specific public
sector equality
duties. The third
sector provides
many services and
supports to
vulnerable people
that the public and
private sector don't.
Evidence suggests
that BME, Disabled
people, women and
younger people have
been particularly
affected by COVID
and Cost of Living
impacts.
Factors such as sex,
disability and age
may interact in this
circumstance to
multiple effects of
any service
reductions.
Disability
The Council has an
Equality outcome on
increasing the
participation of
disabled people
The organization has
a stated focus on:
Disabled people.
A reduction in the
delivery of paths and
other environmental
projects will impact
on increasing good
quality connections
that encourage
active and healthy
activity
Social & Economic
Impact
Linkages to
transport, jobs,
education that do
not require a private
car and support
tourism and visitors
to the area
Active travel is free
and therefore
available to all
members of the
community,
reducing reliance on
the use of private
cars
There may be areas
that either do not
have routes
implemented or
improved and this
may impact on
accessibility and
economic
opportunities
Sex
Gender Reassign
Health
The ability to use
active travel
infrastructure
encourages outdoor
National guidance
encourages
sustainable
transport and
A reduction in the
delivery of paths and
other environmental
projects will impact

Page 207

activity improving
health outcomes outdoor activity
on increasing good
quality connections
that encourage
active and healthy
activity
Human Rights
Marriage & Civil
Partnership
Pregnancy &
Maternity
Race
Religion and Belief
Sexual Orientation
Actions
Policy has a negative impact on an equality group,but is still to be implemented,
please provide justification for this.
The Council is required to reach a balanced budget and the activities that are carried out
through delivery of the grant that covers project management, delivery etc of
environmental projects are not statutory. The maintenance of the environmental
projects and play parks will continue to be maintained.
Will the impact of the policy be monitored and reported on an ongoing bases?
The design and delivery of access routes will be monitored through the Active Travel
Strategy and Action Plans.
Q7 What is you recommendation for this policy?
Intoduce
Please provide a meaningful summary of how you have reached the
recommendation
The Council is required to reach a balanced budget and the grant reduction proposed
will reduce the opportunity to access external funding to design, project manage and
deliver environmental projects. These are not statutory activities and the maintenance
funded by the grant will continue. The user groups include all members of the
community and visitors to the area that may require to access amenities by walking and
cycling where a desire line currently has a gap in connection. There are alternative
access routes that should be used through the adopted road network though these may
be longer, less direct or require use of a private car.

Page 208

AssessmentNo 678 Owner GMacfarlane2
Resource
Regeneration,
Environment
and Growth
Service/Establishment Budget R and N
 
First Name Surname Job title
Head Officer Gail Macfarlane Chief Officer - Roads &Neighbourhood
(include job titles/organisation)
Members Waste Project Board
 
(Please note: the word 'policy' is used as shorthand for stategy policy function or
financial decision)
Policy Title R&N10 Improve recyling rates through a review of the programme of residual waste
collection
 
The aim, objective,purpose and intended out come of policy
The intention is to implement a 3 weekly residual waste collection to increase levels of
recycling and support the route to net zero.
 
 
Service/Partners/Stakeholders/service users involved in the development
and/or implementation of policy.
Waste Project Board members
Does the proposals involve the procurement of any goods or
services? No
If yes please confirm that you have contacted our procurement
services to discuss your requirements. No
SCREENING
You must indicate if there is any relevance to the four areas
Duty to eliminate discrimination (E), advance equal opportunities
(A) or foster good relations (F) No
Relevance to Human Rights (HR) No
Relevance to Health Impacts (H) Yes
Relevance to Social Economic Impacts (SE) No
Who will be affected by this policy?
All users of the waste collection service, frequency of residual waste collection will be impacted and the
day of collection may be impacted depending on the route review. All users will be advised following
and exercise in information raising. The collection of recycling waste will continue to be carried out
fortnightly. This will support users to improve their recycling rates and support the transition to net
zero.
Who will be/has been involved in the consultation process?
Waste Service and the Waste Project Board
Please outline any particular need/barriers which equality groups may have in relation to this
policy list evidence you are using to support this and whether there is any negative impact on
particular groups.
 
Needs Evidence Impact
Age
Some members of
the community have
increased levels of
residual waste or
can find recycling
Those with young
children or with
particular health
issues may have
increased levels of
Should residual
waste frequency of
collection reduce the
use of the recycling
bins will require to

Page 209

confusing. residual waste be maximised
Cross Cutting
Disability
Some members of
the community with
a disability may have
more need of
increased residual
waste
There may be
residual waste
implications from
health conditions
The residual waste
impact of specific
health
circumstances may
be difficult to be
accomodated within
the reduced
frequency of
collection
Social & Economic
Impact
Communities are
required to
understand what
waste can be
recycled, how and
where
There are elements
of waste that is
being placed in
residual waste
collection that could
be recycled if
communities are
educated and
supported to dispose
correctly
An educution and
communications
strategy is required
as there will be an
impact on the
quantity of waste
that can be disposed
of in the residual
bins and recycling
will require to
increase
Sex
Gender Reassign
Health
Any health waste
will require to be
disposed of
appropriately
There may be
increased levels of
residual waste
depending on
particular health
conditions
The availability of
residual waste
disposal may be
impacted with a
reduced frequency
in collection
Human Rights
Marriage & Civil
Partnership
Pregnancy &
Maternity
Race
Religion and Belief
Sexual Orientation
Actions
Policy has a negative impact on an equality group,but is still to be implemented, please provide
justification for this.
The council are required to reach a balanced budget. There will be a communications strategy and
education carried out to ensure residents are informed of collection days of each type of waste
collection. Appropriate use of recycling will be shared to support communities to dispose of their waste
appropriately.
Will the impact of the policy be monitored and reported on an ongoing bases?
Yes the waste service will monitor contamination levels within the recycling collection and the level of
residual waste collected is measured and reported upon.
Q7 What is you recommendation for this policy?
Intoduce
Please provide a meaningful summary of how you have reached the recommendation

Page 210

The Council has a requirement to reach a balanced budget and transition to net zero. This proposal is to
increase and improve recyling rates by supporting communities to dispose of waste appropriately by
recycling all materials that are able to be recycled and removing them from the residual collection.
There will be clear, multi-channel communication on changes to collection frequencies and uplift days.

Page 211

AssessmentNo 681 Owner GMacfarlane2
Resource
Regeneration,
Environment
and Growth
Service/Establishment Budget R and N
 
First Name Surname Job title
Head Officer Gail Macfarlane Chief Officer - Roads &Neighbourhood
(include job titles/organisation)
Members Roads Manager Road Safety Coordinator
 
(Please note: the word 'policy' is used as shorthand for stategy policy function
or financial decision)
Policy Title R&N1 Safety Options Crossing Patrollers - Reduce or Cease
 
The aim, objective,purpose and intended out come of policy
School Crossing Patrols reduce or cease Option 1 Bring the service in line with
current national guidance by withdrawing patrols from 17 locations where there
are controlled pedestrian crossings in place. Best practice guidance states that
school crossing patrollers should not be deployed at crossing points where
controlled pedestrian crossings exist because this can be confusing for motorists.
The Council has experienced difficulties recruiting for school crossing patrollers
and the saving would be achieved through not filling vacant posts and budgeted
hours. Option B The Council has no statutory obligation to provide a school
crossing service and this option would see patrollers withdrawn from all crossings.
The Council would continue to work with parents and pupils to promote road
safety.
 
 
Service/Partners/Stakeholders/service users involved in the development
and/or implementation of policy.
National Benchmarking carried out. Relevant to both options a question was asked
on the withdrawal of school crossing patrols from junctions where pedestrian
crossings exist those opposed to the proposal highlighted concerns over safety
those supportive of the proposal noted the importance of proper road safety
education general view that work was required on driver education to support this
proposal The Roads Service have been involved in the development of this
proposal.
Does the proposals involve the procurement of any goods or
services? No
If yes please confirm that you have contacted our
procurement services to discuss your requirements. Yes
SCREENING
You must indicate if there is any relevance to the four areas
Duty to eliminate discrimination (E), advance equal
opportunities (A) or foster good relations (F) Yes
Relevance to Human Rights (HR) No
Relevance to Health Impacts (H) Yes
Relevance to Social Economic Impacts (SE) No
Who will be affected by this policy?
All groups are affected but parents and pupils to a greater degree
Who will be/has been involved in the consultation process?
National Benchmarking A question was asked on the withdrawal of school crossing patrols from

Page 212

junctions where pedestrian crossings exist those opposed to the proposal highlighted concerns
over safety those supportive of the proposal noted the importance of proper road safety education
general view that work was required on driver education to support this proposal
Please outline any particular need/barriers which equality groups may have in relation to
this policy list evidence you are using to support this and whether there is any negative
impact on particular groups.
 
Needs Evidence Impact
Age
All groups affected
but children and
young families to a
greater degree.
School age children
that are walking to
school either with or
without parents will
tend to use the
identified safe route
to school with
crossing patrollers
Negative
Cross Cutting
Disability
All groups affected
but people with
disabilities may be
affected to a greater
degree.
School age children
that are walking to
school either with or
without parents will
tend to use the
identified safe route
to school with
crossing patrollers
Negative
Social & Economic
Impact
Children in more
deprived areas
Sustrans Scotland
analysis highlights
that children on foot
and bike are more
than 3 times more
likely to be involved
in an accident in the
20% most deprived
areas compared to
the 20% least
deprived
Negative
Sex
Gender Reassign
Health Children travelling
actively to school
Sustrans Scotland
have identified that
children are
healthier if they
travel to school by
walking, cycling or
scooting.
Negative
Human Rights
Marriage & Civil
Partnership
Pregnancy &
Maternity
Highly represented
in affected group
due to potential
users of crossing
points with crossing
Young families
walking to school or
early learning
facilities
Negative

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patrollers
Race
Religion and Belief
Sexual Orientation
Actions
Policy has a negative impact on an equality group,but is still to be implemented, please
provide justification for this.
A balanced budget is required. Role out of any proposals would take into account health and safety
and safe routes to school
Will the impact of the policy be monitored and reported on an ongoing bases?
Yes. School travel plans are monitored and updated to reflect travel patterns and issues
Q7 What is you recommendation for this policy?
Intoduce
Please provide a meaningful summary of how you have reached the recommendation
The Council's road safety team liaise with the pupils to promote safe walking behaviour and to
support the delivery of road safety initiatives. Option1 Best practice guidance states that school
crossings patrollers should not be deployed where patrolled crossings exist as this duplication can
be confusing for motorists. The council has experienced difficulties recruiting for school crossing
vacancies and the saving would be achieved by not filling vacant posts. Option 2 Retention of
crossing patrollers at locations that are prioritised due to the location of the school with review of
the localised road conditions such as vehicle speed, visibility and road geometry. This propsal does
not provide crossing patrollers to all sites that do not have a formal crossing facility. Option 3 This
proposal would see the removal of all crossing patrollers from all locations. The council has no
statutory obligation to provide a school crossing service. The council would continue to work with
parents and pupils to promote road safety. There is a possibility of engineering works to be carried
out if the Roads Service identify locations on safe routes to school that fulfil the criteria for
controlled crossing points with an available budget. Officers will also continue to work with the
school community to identify suitable locations for lining or signing interventions to improve
driver behaviour and raise aware ness of the fact that they are in the proximity of a school.

Page 214

AssessmentNo 684 Owner GMacfarlane2
Resource
Regeneration,
Environment
and Growth
Service/Establishment Budget R and N
 
First Name Surname Job title
Head Officer Gail Macfarlane Chief Officer - Roads &Neighbourhood
(include job titles/organisation)
Members Grounds Manager
 
(Please note: the word 'policy' is used as shorthand for stategy policy function
or financial decision)
Policy Title R&N4 Savings Option Care of Gardens - Introduce charges or cease service
 
The aim, objective,purpose and intended out come of policy
To introduce a charge for all users of the care of gardens scheme or to cease
providing the service. This will affect older people and disabled who currently
receive this service at no charge and those over 65 are able to pay a subsidised
charge to receive the service. The potential charging proposal is £70 for all users,
£100 for all users, £100 for those on disability payment only or to cease providing
the service for all.
 
 
Service/Partners/Stakeholders/service users involved in the development
and/or implementation of policy.
Grounds Service
Does the proposals involve the procurement of any goods or
services? Yes
If yes please confirm that you have contacted our procurement
services to discuss your requirements. Yes
SCREENING
You must indicate if there is any relevance to the four areas
Duty to eliminate discrimination (E), advance equal
opportunities (A) or foster good relations (F) Yes
Relevance to Human Rights (HR) No
Relevance to Health Impacts (H) No
Relevance to Social Economic Impacts (SE) Yes
Who will be affected by this policy?
This will affect older people who are eligible for access to the scheme and those identified as with
disabilities who currently receive this service at no charge
Who will be/has been involved in the consultation process?
Grounds Service HSCP
Please outline any particular need/barriers which equality groups may have in relation to
this policy list evidence you are using to support this and whether there is any negative
impact on particular groups.
 
Needs Evidence Impact
Age
Older members of
the community over
state pension age
that have been
previously exempt
Those on a fixed
pension may find it
more difficult to
meet the charge
reflecting the
Negative

Page 215

from charges and
eligible to receive
the service
increase in the cost
of living
Cross Cutting
Seasonal Workforce
reduction to reflect
any reduction in
number of
customers, reduces
employment
opportunities locally
Seasonal workers
are employed by the
Council to carry out
care of gardens
duties and are often
local residents
Negative
Disability
Members of the
community with
disabilities are more
likely to be income
deprived than non-
disabled people
The removal of the
free service for
disabled people who
on average may be
more income
deprived may find it
more difficult to
meet the charge.
Negative
Social & Economic
Impact
Those that are
income deprived will
potentially find it
more challenging to
either pay the
charge or if service
ceases find
alternative options
Those that are on a
lower income and in
receipt of a disability
payment or eligible
due to age may find
it a challenge to
either pay charge or
find alternative
gardeners and
therefore the area
may not be as well
maintained
Negative
Sex
Women are more
likely to be income
deprived
Due to gender pay
gap and are
potentially more
likely to be single
parents and/or
carers
Negative
Gender Reassign
Health
Human Rights
Marriage & Civil
Partnership
Pregnancy &
Maternity
Race
Religion and Belief
Sexual Orientation
Actions
Policy has a negative impact on an equality group,but is still to be implemented, please
provide justification for this.
The overall charge can be paid flexibly and at £70 or £100, the service remains heavily subsidised.
Should the service no longer be made available to those that are not in receipt of a disability

Page 216

payment this may impact on those that have currently been in receipt of the service but are now no
longer eligible. if the service ceases all users will be required to access an alternative which may
provide employment opportunity for local workforce. If the care of gardens service ceases all users
will be required to find alternative delivery options which will potentially be at a cost and is
dependent on businesses having availability.
Will the impact of the policy be monitored and reported on an ongoing bases?
The use of the service will be monitored and the number of customers will be reported annually. if
the service ceases monitoring will be through feedback from colleagues in the community
Q7 What is you recommendation for this policy?
Intoduce
Please provide a meaningful summary of how you have reached the recommendation
It is a legitimate aim of the council to provide sustainable services and the council is required to
reach a balanced budget. The proposals are designed to reduce the funding gap in a sustainable
fashion and the charge is equal for all. Whilst there is a negative impact on some groups that were
previously exempt from charging this is considered proportionate to sustain a subsidised service
that supports a desirable outcome in terms of general environment. The users will be informed on
decisions taken and supported as to whether the charge introduced is £70/£100 for all users or
whether the eligibility criteria is to be reviewed to limit to those on disability payments only. If the
service ceases users will be informed and where possible advised of alternatives. There will be
opportunity to pay in installments. If the service ceases there will be engagement to ensure users
are made aware that alternative delivery modes are required with a requirement to arrange garden
maintenance independently.

Page 217

AssessmentNo 685 Owner amenon
Resource Transformation Service/Establishment Budget P and T
 
First Name Surname Job title
Head Officer Arun Menon Business Support Manager
(include job titles/organisation)
Members Arun Menon and Victoria Rogers
 
(Please note: the word 'policy' is used as shorthand for stategy policy
function or financial decision)
Policy Title Reduce pay preservation
 
The aim, objective,purpose and intended out come of policy
The Council currently protects eligible employee’s salary under pay
preservation for 24 months, subject to criteria being satisfied. Under this
proposal the current level of pay preservation will be reduced to either three
months or six months. An assessment of the level of impact such a change
will have for the organisation and employees was undertaken. Data for the
five year period (1 January 2018 to 13 January 2023) was analysed and this
indicated that: • Reducing pay preservation to 6 months could have reduced
costs by circa £128,000 for the 5 year period or £25,700 p.a. • Reducing pay
preservation to 3 months could have reduced cost by circa £165,000 for the
5 year period or £33,000 p.a. It is difficult to forecast the cost reduction for
the Council in future years as it depends on the number of employees eligible
for pay preservation. The data assessment also indicated that, in that 5 year
timeframe, the breakdown of impacted employees was 67% females and
33% males. This is disproportionately more advantageous to men as the
overall demographic is 71% female and 29% male so one should expect the
protected numbers to mirror that.
 
 
Service/Partners/Stakeholders/service users involved in the
development and/or implementation of policy.
Chief Officers, Strategic HR
Does the proposals involve the procurement of any goods or
services? No
If yes please confirm that you have contacted our
procurement services to discuss your requirements. No
SCREENING
You must indicate if there is any relevance to the four areas
Duty to eliminate discrimination (E), advance equal
opportunities (A) or foster good relations (F) Yes
Relevance to Human Rights (HR) No
Relevance to Health Impacts (H) No
Relevance to Social Economic Impacts (SE) No
Who will be affected by this policy?
Based on historic data over last 5 years this policy would have a Female (67%) - Male (33%)
split. However it will be hard to predict what the likely split between females and males will
be going forward but can safely say it is likely to geared towards females staff groups given
they are the majority within the council.
Who will be/has been involved in the consultation process?
Chief Officers, Strategic HR

Page 218

Please outline any particular need/barriers which equality groups may have in
relation to this policy list evidence you are using to support this and whether there is
any negative impact on particular groups.
 
Needs Evidence Impact
Age
The council has duty
of care toward all its
workers, and in
terms of the Public
Sector Equality Duty
The Council's age
profile confirms that
the highest
percentage of
employees remain
clustered in the age
groups 50-59.
There is no specific
impact identified in
relation to age.
Cross Cutting
Disability
The council has duty
of care toward all its
workers, and in
terms of the Public
Sector Equality Duty
The Council's
disability profile
confirms 1.38% of
employees have
declared a disability.
There is no specific
impact identified in
relation to disability.
Social & Economic
Impact
The council has duty
of care toward all its
workers, and in
terms of the Public
Sector Equality Duty
Reduction in
anticipated income
for some employees
may result in
disposable income
being reduced and
having a reduced
amount to spend in
the economy
This policy may have
a financial impact on
staff where their pay
preservations is
reduced from 24
months to either 6
months or 3 months.
Sex
The council has duty
of care toward all its
workers, and in
terms of the Public
Sector Equality Duty
Workforce profile
concludes 71%
female and 29%
male
Based on last 5 years
data this policy is
disproportionately
more advantageous
to men as the overall
demographic is 71%
female and 29%
male so one should
expect the impacted
numbers to mirror
that. However it is
split as 67% female
and 33% male.
Gender Reassign
Health
The council has duty
of care toward all its
workers, and in
terms of the Public
Sector Equality Duty
Reduction in
anticipated income
for some employees
may contribute
towards poor health
outcomes.
This policy may
impact heath of staff
if they are adversely
impacted by being
put on pay
preservation and
rather than the
current 24 months
have only 6 months
or 3 months.
Human Rights

Page 219

Marriage & Civil
Partnership
Pregnancy &
Maternity
Race
Religion and Belief
Sexual Orientation
Actions
Policy has a negative impact on an equality group,but is still to be implemented, please
provide justification for this.
The council has a duty to balance the budget. Although this policy may have a negative impact
on employees given the socio economic impact assessed above. Based on last 5 years data
this policy is disproportionately more advantageous to men as the overall demographic is
71% female and 29% male so one should expect the impacted numbers to mirror that.
Will the impact of the policy be monitored and reported on an ongoing bases?
No
Q7 What is you recommendation for this policy?
Intoduce
Please provide a meaningful summary of how you have reached the recommendation
It is difficult to forecast the cost reduction for the Council in future years as it depends on the
number of employees eligible for pay preservation. The data assessment also indicated that,
in that 5 year timeframe, the breakdown of impacted employees was 67% females and 33%
males. This is disproportionately more advantageous to men as the current overall
demographic is 71% female and 29% male so one should expect the protected numbers to
mirror that.

Page 220

AssessmentNo 686 Owner GMacfarlane2
Resource
Regeneration,
Environment
and Growth
Service/Establishment Budget R and N
 
First Name Surname Job title
Head Officer Gail Macfarlane Chief Officer - Roads &Neighbourhood
(include job titles/organisation)
Members Grounds Manager
 
(Please note: the word 'policy' is used as shorthand for stategy policy function or
financial decision)
Policy Title R&N6 Savings Option Weekend Litter Collection
 
The aim, objective,purpose and intended out come of policy
Removal or reduction of Litter Collection facility at weekends
 
 
Service/Partners/Stakeholders/service users involved in the development
and/or implementation of policy.
Grounds Service
Does the proposals involve the procurement of any goods or
services? Yes
If yes please confirm that you have contacted our procurement
services to discuss your requirements. Yes
SCREENING
You must indicate if there is any relevance to the four areas
Duty to eliminate discrimination (E), advance equal opportunities
(A) or foster good relations (F) No
Relevance to Human Rights (HR) No
Relevance to Health Impacts (H) No
Relevance to Social Economic Impacts (SE) Yes
Who will be affected by this policy?
Communities, businesses and visitors to the area over the weekend period
Who will be/has been involved in the consultation process?
Grounds Service
Please outline any particular need/barriers which equality groups may have in relation to this
policy list evidence you are using to support this and whether there is any negative impact on
particular groups.
 
Needs Evidence Impact
Age
Cross Cutting
There are 6
postholders
employed to carry
out this function
The operatives
employed will no
longer be required
and this reduces
employment
opportunities
Negative
Disability
Social & Economic
Impact
Litter may by
dropped and left
affecting the look of
Litter detracts from
the appearance of a
location and the
Negative

Page 221

the town
centre/park etc.
perception will be
that the area is not
cared for if litter
allowed to remain
Sex
Gender Reassign
Health
Human Rights
Marriage & Civil
Partnership
Pregnancy &
Maternity
Race
Religion and Belief
Sexual Orientation
Actions
Policy has a negative impact on an equality group,but is still to be implemented, please provide
justification for this.
The Council is required to reach a balanced budget. The siting of bins will be reviewed to ensure they
are located where visitors etc require to maximise compliance
Will the impact of the policy be monitored and reported on an ongoing bases?
The litter strategy will identify if the litter issue greater at weekend if no collection in place
Q7 What is you recommendation for this policy?
Intoduce
Please provide a meaningful summary of how you have reached the recommendation
This proposal would mean reduce or no litter collection at weekends, this will affect town centres,
parks and areas with high visitor numbers. Currently 6 operatives are employed from Friday to Monday
to clear litter and retain levels of cleanliness. The options being considered are a reduction tby 2 or 4
weekend litter collectors or removal of all 6 weekend litter collectors. If introduced additional litter
bins will be installed but these will not be emptied until Monday.

Page 222

AssessmentNo 687 Owner GMacfarlane2
Resource
Regeneration,
Environment
and Growth
Service/Establishment Budget R and N
 
First Name Surname Job title
Head Officer Gail Macfarlane Chief Officer - Roads &Neighbourhood
(include job titles/organisation)
Members Roads Service
 
(Please note: the word 'policy' is used as shorthand for stategy policy function or
financial decision)
Policy Title R&N15 Saving Option Christmas Lighting
 
The aim, objective,purpose and intended out come of policy
Cease council erecting festive lighting and supporting businesses and communities
to fund raise and self manage festive lighting displays.
 
 
Service/Partners/Stakeholders/service users involved in the development
and/or implementation of policy.
Roads Service
Does the proposals involve the procurement of any goods or
services? No
If yes please confirm that you have contacted our procurement
services to discuss your requirements. Yes
SCREENING
You must indicate if there is any relevance to the four areas
Duty to eliminate discrimination (E), advance equal
opportunities (A) or foster good relations (F) No
Relevance to Human Rights (HR) No
Relevance to Health Impacts (H) No
Relevance to Social Economic Impacts (SE) No
Who will be affected by this policy?
Communities and town centre users
Who will be/has been involved in the consultation process?
Roads Service
Please outline any particular need/barriers which equality groups may have in relation to
this policy list evidence you are using to support this and whether there is any negative
impact on particular groups.
 
Needs Evidence Impact
Age
Cross Cutting
Disability
Social & Economic
Impact
Christmas lighting
can encourage
footfall within town
centres
Christmas light
switch ons and
associated events
can be well
supported by
visitors
Negative if there is
no appetite from
others to take on
this organising
Sex

Page 223

Gender Reassign
Health
Human Rights
Marriage & Civil
Partnership
Pregnancy &
Maternity
Race
Religion and Belief
Sexual Orientation
Actions
Policy has a negative impact on an equality group,but is still to be implemented, please
provide justification for this.
The council has the responsibity to reach a balanced budget and communities and town centre
businesses users will be supported to take on the responsibility for christmas lighting.
Will the impact of the policy be monitored and reported on an ongoing bases?
Feedback from those that organise the christmas lighting in future years will be monitored
Q7 What is you recommendation for this policy?
Intoduce
Please provide a meaningful summary of how you have reached the recommendation
The council is required to reach a balanced budget and this proposal is related to a non statutory
activity carried out by the Roads Service. Town centre businesses and community groups will be
supported to take this activity on within future years.

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AssessmentNo 688 Owner GMacfarlane2
Resource
Regeneration,
Environment
and Growth
Service/Establishment Budget R and N
 
First Name Surname Job title
Head Officer Gail Macfarlane Chief Officer - Roads &Neighbourhood
(include job titles/organisation)
Members Waste Service, Grounds Service
 
(Please note: the word 'policy' is used as shorthand for stategy policy function or
financial decision)
Policy Title R&N8 Savings Option Garden Waste Charge Introduced
 
The aim, objective,purpose and intended out come of policy
To introduce a fee to collect and dispose of garden waste
 
 
Service/Partners/Stakeholders/service users involved in the development
and/or implementation of policy.
Waste Service
Does the proposals involve the procurement of any goods or
services? Yes
If yes please confirm that you have contacted our procurement
services to discuss your requirements. Yes
SCREENING
You must indicate if there is any relevance to the four areas
Duty to eliminate discrimination (E), advance equal opportunities
(A) or foster good relations (F) No
Relevance to Human Rights (HR) No
Relevance to Health Impacts (H) No
Relevance to Social Economic Impacts (SE) Yes
Who will be affected by this policy?
All users of the garden waste collection
Who will be/has been involved in the consultation process?
Waste Service and Grounds Service
Please outline any particular need/barriers which equality groups may have in relation to this
policy list evidence you are using to support this and whether there is any negative impact on
particular groups.
 
Needs Evidence Impact
Age
15-16 years ago
25% of pensioners
in Scotland were
living in poverty,
compared to 15%
now Single
pensioners over the
age of 75 more likely
to to live in poverty
Some small potential
negative effect
Cross Cutting
Disability Disabled people are Some small potential

Page 225

more likely to be
living in poverty
than non disabled
people
negative effect
Social & Economic
Impact
May lead to
increased fly tipping
and/or
contamination of
other bins.
If unable or
unwilling to pay a
fee users may
dispose of garden
waste in an
alternative manner
Negative
Sex
Women are more
likely to be income
deprived than men.
39% of single
women with
children are living in
poverty.
Some small potential
negative effect
Gender Reassign
Health
Human Rights
Marriage & Civil
Partnership
Pregnancy &
Maternity
Race
people from non-
white minority
ethnic groups were
more likely to be in
relative poverty
after housing
Some small potential
negative effect
Religion and Belief
Sexual Orientation
Actions
Policy has a negative impact on an equality group,but is still to be implemented, please provide
justification for this.
The council is required to reach a balanced budget. The waste strategy and communications plan will
inform users on the appropriate bins for disposal and encourage compliance. It will support the councils
climate action plan.
Will the impact of the policy be monitored and reported on an ongoing bases?
Yes the number of residents purchasing a permit will be monitored and recordedd
Q7 What is you recommendation for this policy?
Intoduce
Please provide a meaningful summary of how you have reached the recommendation
The Council is required to reach a balanced budget. The separation of garden waste and food would will
support the appropriate disposal of waste reducing the carbon footprint of the council and reducing the
costs. Some very small potential negative effect on some groups however, the fee charged will be small
for the collection of the garden waste and a payment plan option will be available for those that require
to pay in instalments.

Page 226

AssessmentNo 689 Owner GMacfarlane2
Resource
Regeneration,
Environment
and Growth
Service/Establishment Budget R and N
 
First Name Surname Job title
Head Officer Gail Macfarlane Chief Officer - Roads &Neighbourhood
(include job titles/organisation)
Members Grounds Service
 
(Please note: the word 'policy' is used as shorthand for stategy policy function or
financial decision)
Policy Title R&N9 Savings Option Reduction in grass cutting, litter collection and street cleaning
 
The aim, objective,purpose and intended out come of policy
The proposal is the reduction in grass cutting, street sweeping and litter collection
The proposal considered is as follows Reduce grass cutting of open space areas
prioritising areas of high amenity such as parks, football pitches etc. Reduced
emptying litter bins and routine and ad hoc sweeping with a focus on high use
pedestrian areas. Additional bins would be installed at key locations to minimise
littering.
 
 
Service/Partners/Stakeholders/service users involved in the development
and/or implementation of policy.
Grounds Service
Does the proposals involve the procurement of any goods or
services? Yes
If yes please confirm that you have contacted our procurement
services to discuss your requirements. Yes
SCREENING
You must indicate if there is any relevance to the four areas
Duty to eliminate discrimination (E), advance equal
opportunities (A) or foster good relations (F) No
Relevance to Human Rights (HR) No
Relevance to Health Impacts (H) Yes
Relevance to Social Economic Impacts (SE) Yes
Who will be affected by this policy?
Communities, residents and businesses
Who will be/has been involved in the consultation process?
Grounds Service
Please outline any particular need/barriers which equality groups may have in relation to this
policy list evidence you are using to support this and whether there is any negative impact on
particular groups.
 
Needs Evidence Impact
Age
Cross Cutting
Any reduction in
grass cutting, street
sweeping and litter
collection reduces
resource
If numbers of
seasonal operatives
and/or grounds
operatives reduced
this adversely affects
Negative

Page 227

requirement employment
opportunities
Disability
The Council had a
duty to make its
services accessible
to disabled people.
We must seek to
mitigate any
negative impacts.
Areas with more
accessible green
space are associated
with better mental
and physical health.
It is important that
shared areas are
accessible to all
A reduction in grass
cutting/maintenance
may have a negative
impact on
accessibility for
people with
disabilities.
Social & Economic
Impact
The cleanliness and
maintenance of both
urban and rural
areas adversely
impacts the
perception of an
area
Areas with a lower
level of maintenance
of grassed areas and
street cleanliness
align with areas of
higher deprivation
and can impact on
investment
opportunities and
local pride
Negative
Sex
The Council needs to
consider impacts of
staff and service
users.
If numbers of
seasonal operatives
and/or grounds
operatives reduced
this adversely affects
employment
opportunities
Negative
Gender Reassign
Health
Health and
Wellbeing is a
priority in the WDC
2022-27 Strategic
Plan
Physical
environment can
influence physical
and mental health
This may have a
potenital negative
impact as a result in
a reduction to use
open as a result of
reduced
maintenance.
Human Rights
Marriage & Civil
Partnership
Pregnancy &
Maternity
Race
Religion and Belief
Sexual Orientation
Actions
Policy has a negative impact on an equality group,but is still to be implemented, please provide
justification for this.
The council has a requirement to reach a balanced budget. The provision fulfils the council's statutory
obligations in relation to street cleaning and additional bins will be installed at key locations. There is

Page 228

no statutory requirement to maintain grassed areas.
Will the impact of the policy be monitored and reported on an ongoing bases?
Yes through performance indicators
Q7 What is you recommendation for this policy?
Intoduce
Please provide a meaningful summary of how you have reached the recommendation
The council has a requirement to reach a balance budget. The proposals considered are of activities
that are either non statutory or are delivered in excess of the statutory level. Areas with grassed areas
not maintained or a lower level of street cleanliness align with areas of higher deprivation and can
impact on investment opportunities however where appropriate areas of biodiversity will be
introduced which supports the council's transition to net zero. In addition additional litter bins will be
installed if identified as required. If grounds and/or seasonal operatives are reduced this adversely
affects employment opportunities

Page 229

AssessmentNo 690 Owner GMacfarlane2
Resource
Regeneration,
Environment
and Growth
Service/Establishment Budget R and N
 
First Name Surname Job title
Head Officer Gail Macfarlane Chief Officer - Roads &Neighbourhood
(include job titles/organisation)
Members Roads and Grounds Service
 
(Please note: the word 'policy' is used as shorthand for stategy policy
function or financial decision)
Policy Title R&N12 Reduction or removal of Footway Gritting
 
The aim, objective,purpose and intended out come of policy
The savings option is a review into footway gritting. 3 options have been
considered as follows: Option 1 Reduce footway gritting by 20% This will
reduce footway gritting to prioritise routes to school, town centres,
transport hubs and other locations that are identified as priority pedestrian
routes and destinations Option 2 Reduce footway gritting by 50% This will
reduce footway gritting to main roads and prioritising areas round schools
and main shopping areas. Option 3 Cease all footway gritting In this option
there will be no footway gritting carried on. Gritting activities would be
limited within the Winter Plan to carriageways only. In all options residents
and businesses will be encouraged to use grit bins that are sited throughout
the local authority area.
 
 
Service/Partners/Stakeholders/service users involved in the
development and/or implementation of policy.
Roads and Grounds Service
Does the proposals involve the procurement of any goods or
services? Yes
If yes please confirm that you have contacted our
procurement services to discuss your requirements. Yes
SCREENING
You must indicate if there is any relevance to the four areas
Duty to eliminate discrimination (E), advance equal
opportunities (A) or foster good relations (F) No
Relevance to Human Rights (HR) No
Relevance to Health Impacts (H) Yes
Relevance to Social Economic Impacts (SE) Yes
Who will be affected by this policy?
All users of the adopted footways
Who will be/has been involved in the consultation process?
Roads and Grounds Services
Please outline any particular need/barriers which equality groups may have in
relation to this policy list evidence you are using to support this and whether there is
any negative impact on particular groups.
 
Needs Evidence Impact
Age Older residents may Older residents are Negative

Page 230

be more vulnerable
to slips, trips and
falls and may be
more reliant on
being able to walk to
shops etc. School age
children will use
public footways to
access school
more vulnerable to
injury if they fall on
ice and are more
likely to be reliant
on walking and
public transport to
access amenities.
They may become
fearful of leaving
their homes if
footways are icy and
untreated. It is
known that a high
number of children
walk to school.
Cross Cutting
There may be a
reduction in footfall
to town centre
businesses etc if
footways are
untreated and areas
are not considered
safely accessible
Visitors and
residents may feel
vulnerable in
accessing the town
centres and other
destinations if they
feel there is a risk of
slips, trips or falls.
Negative
Disability
Those that are
registered as
disabled may be
more likely to be
reliant on walking
and use of public
transport
Members of the
community that are
registered disabled
may be more
vulnerable to slips,
trips and falls and
potential injury.
Negative
Social & Economic
Impact
In areas that are
income deprived
there may be not be
access to a private
car and residents
may be reliant on
walking and use of
public transport. In
addition if residents
and visitors fearful
of untreated
footways they may
not visit town
centres to shop etc
Ownership of a
private car is lower
in areas of
deprivation and
therefore residents
are reliant on
walking and access
to public transport.
There will be grit
bins sited in town
centres to support
access.
Negative
Sex
Cross cuts with
pregnancy and
maternity
Cross cuts with
pregnancy and
maternity
Cross cuts with
pregnancy and
maternity
Gender Reassign
Health
Human Rights
Marriage & Civil
Partnership
Pregnancy & May be more Pregnant people are Negative

Page 231

Maternity vulnerable to slips,
trips and falls
more vulnerable to
injury if they fall on
ice. They may
become fearful of
leaving their homes
if footways are icy
and untreated.
Race
Religion and Belief
Sexual Orientation
Actions
Policy has a negative impact on an equality group,but is still to be implemented,
please provide justification for this.
The gritting of footways is non statutory and the Winter Plan will be updated to reflect that
treatment will either be reduced to priority routes or ceased to carriageway only. A
communications exercise will be undertaken about taking sensible precautions in winter
weather such as appropriate footwear. There will also be grit bins sited in appropriate
locations.
Will the impact of the policy be monitored and reported on an ongoing bases?
The Roads Service review the Winter Plan annually and will monitor actions undertake.
Q7 What is you recommendation for this policy?
Intoduce
Please provide a meaningful summary of how you have reached the recommendation
The council is required to reach a balanced budget and the gritting is footways is not
statutory. If a service is no longer sustainable the service is required to be reviewed to
determine how delivery should continue. In this proposal should footway gritting be
reduced or ceased the location of grit bins will be assessed to ensure theses are located in
areas of most requirement. In addition information sharing will be carried out to support
communities how best to travel in winter weather.

Page 232

AssessmentNo 691 Owner JGALLACHER
Resource Transformation Service/Establishment Budget P and T
 
First Name Surname Job title
Head Officer James Gallacher ICT Manager
(include job titles/organisation)
Members James Gallacher, ICT Manager Victoria Rogers, People &Technology Chief Officer
 
(Please note: the word 'policy' is used as shorthand for stategy policy function or
financial decision)
Policy Title PT06 Savings Options - Reduction in ICT Management.
 
The aim, objective,purpose and intended out come of policy
Removal of one full-time ICT Business Partner role from the ICT management
structure. This post is a new post and currently vacant, therefore there is no impact to
employees.
 
 
Service/Partners/Stakeholders/service users involved in the development
and/or implementation of policy.
Consulation with P&TChief Officer, Strategic HR, ICT Management team and Trade
Unions
Does the proposals involve the procurement of any goods or
services? No
If yes please confirm that you have contacted our procurement
services to discuss your requirements. No
SCREENING
You must indicate if there is any relevance to the four areas
Duty to eliminate discrimination (E), advance equal
opportunities (A) or foster good relations (F) No
Relevance to Human Rights (HR) No
Relevance to Health Impacts (H) No
Relevance to Social Economic Impacts (SE) No
Who will be affected by this policy?
Who will be/has been involved in the consultation process?
Please outline any particular need/barriers which equality groups may have in relation to this
policy list evidence you are using to support this and whether there is any negative impact on
particular groups.
 
Needs Evidence Impact
Age
Cross Cutting
Disability
Social & Economic
Impact
Sex
Gender Reassign
Health
Human Rights
Marriage & Civil

Page 233

Partnership
Pregnancy &
Maternity
Race
Religion and Belief
Sexual Orientation
Actions
Policy has a negative impact on an equality group,but is still to be implemented, please provide
justification for this.
Will the impact of the policy be monitored and reported on an ongoing bases?
Q7 What is you recommendation for this policy?
Please provide a meaningful summary of how you have reached the recommendation
The council has a duty to balance the budget. This post is a new post and currently vacant, following
consideration of how these tasks can be carried out it has been determined that there is no longer a
need for this post.

Page 234

AssessmentNo 694 Owner JGALLACHER
Resource Transformation Service/Establishment Budget P and T
 
First Name Surname Job title
Head Officer James Gallacher ICT Manager
(include job titles/organisation)
Members James Gallacher, ICT Manager Victoria Rogers, Chief Officer People
&Technology
 
(Please note: the word 'policy' is used as shorthand for stategy policy
function or financial decision)
Policy Title PT07 Savings Options - Reduction in ICT Support
 
The aim, objective,purpose and intended out come of policy
To reduce the ICT support team by three part-time roles, equivalent to 1.7
FTE.
 
 
Service/Partners/Stakeholders/service users involved in the
development and/or implementation of policy.
Consulation with P&TChief Officer, Strategic HR, ICT Management team and
Trade Unions
Does the proposals involve the procurement of any goods or
services? No
If yes please confirm that you have contacted our
procurement services to discuss your requirements. No
SCREENING
You must indicate if there is any relevance to the four areas
Duty to eliminate discrimination (E), advance equal
opportunities (A) or foster good relations (F) Yes
Relevance to Human Rights (HR) No
Relevance to Health Impacts (H) Yes
Relevance to Social Economic Impacts (SE) Yes
Who will be affected by this policy?
ICT employees in the management and support teams.
Who will be/has been involved in the consultation process?
Consulation with P&TChief Officer, Strategic HR, ICT Management team and Trade Unions
Please outline any particular need/barriers which equality groups may have in relation
to this policy list evidence you are using to support this and whether there is any
negative impact on particular groups.
 
Needs Evidence Impact
Age
The council must
meet public sector
equality duty.
The age group are
55 to 60, and 60 to
65 group.
Potential to have
negative impact
however the council
is providing early
retirement or switch
policy to support
employees.
Cross Cutting
Disability The council must
meet public sector
Disabled people are
more likely to
Potential to have
negative impact

Page 235

equality duty. experience financial
hardship.
however the council
is providing early
retirement or switch
policy to support
employees.
Social & Economic
Impact
The council has duty
of care toward all its
workers, and in
terms of the Public
Sector Equality Duty
Employees affected
by this policy may be
impacted financially.
This has the
potential to have a
negative impact. Any
potential reduction
in staffing
requirements could
be managed through
SWITCH
redeployment
programme.
Additional support
will be available to
any employees
impacted by the
savings options to
ensure their health
and wellbeing.
Sex
Gender Reassign
Health
Health and
wellbeing are a
priority for the
Council as noted in
our Strategic Plan
22-27.
Worries
surrounding job
security may be
heightened for
employees
This has the
potential to
negatively impact
employees, Any
potential reduction
in staffing
requirements will be
managed through
SWITCH
redeployment
programme.
Additional support
will be available to
any employees
impacted by the
savings options to
ensure their health
and wellbeing.
Human Rights
Marriage & Civil
Partnership
Pregnancy &
Maternity
Race
Religion and Belief
Sexual Orientation
Actions

Page 236

Policy has a negative impact on an equality group,but is still to be implemented, please
provide justification for this.
Reduction in support is manageable as ICT are currently implementing and embracing new
technology to automate processes and reduce the requirement for manual tasks. In addition,
employees are being offered early retirement options plus wellbeing and switch policy
support.
Will the impact of the policy be monitored and reported on an ongoing bases?
ICT will continue to monitor and review support requirements, capacity and workloads. ICT
will continue to report via service management and also WDC strategic plan KPI - Volume of
ICT Incidents closed in half day or less.
Q7 What is you recommendation for this policy?
Please provide a meaningful summary of how you have reached the recommendation
The council has a duty to balance the budget. Following consideration of how these tasks can
be carried out it has been determined that a reduction in support areas is manageable but will
mean longer waiting times for system upgrades, file restores and longer waiting times for
incident/request resolution in both corporate, education and partner areas.

Page 237

AssessmentNo 697 Owner Laurence.Slavin
Resource Transformation Service/Establishment Resources
 
First Name Surname Job title
Head Officer Laurence Slavin Chief Officer Resources
(include job titles/organisation)
Members Laurence Slavin - Chief Officer Resources
 
(Please note: the word 'policy' is used as shorthand for stategy policy
function or financial decision)
Policy Title RES04 - Remove Voluntary Grant Funding
 
The aim, objective,purpose and intended out come of policy
A reduction in voluntary grant funding provided to West Dunbartonshire
Community &Volunteering Services (WDCVS) who administer Voluntary
Grant funding on behalf of the Council of up to £150,000 per annum. This
funding covers social transport (£100,000), play schemes and running
costs (£50,000). In addition to the above funding, the Council also
provides £21,560 of funding to Clydebank Asbestos Group and the
proposal is to reduce this by 25% to £16,170 (reduction of £5,390)
 
 
Service/Partners/Stakeholders/service users involved in the
development and/or implementation of policy.
Senior Council staff and the Budget Working Group have been consulted
on the development of the option
Does the proposals involve the procurement of any goods or
services? No
If yes please confirm that you have contacted our
procurement services to discuss your requirements. No
SCREENING
You must indicate if there is any relevance to the four areas
Duty to eliminate discrimination (E), advance equal
opportunities (A) or foster good relations (F) Yes
Relevance to Human Rights (HR) No
Relevance to Health Impacts (H) Yes
Relevance to Social Economic Impacts (SE) Yes
Who will be affected by this policy?
Community Groups who apply to West Dunbartonshire Community &Volunteering
Services for grant funding and in particular, Clydebank Asbestos Group
Who will be/has been involved in the consultation process?
WDCVS and Clydebank Asbestos Group have been notified of the potential reduction in
funding subject to elected member approval on 1 March 2023
Please outline any particular need/barriers which equality groups may have in
relation to this policy list evidence you are using to support this and whether there
is any negative impact on particular groups.
 
Needs Evidence Impact
Age
Relevant as funding
is provided across a
wide range of
community groups
Funding is provided
to cover social
transport
(£100,000), play
Reduction in funding
will negatively affect
the amount that
WDCVS can provide

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and age ranges
schemes and
running costs
(£50,000) and
funding for people
with asbestos
related diseases.
to Community
groups who apply to
them for financial
support. These
groups are wide
ranging and the
funding also helps
support play
schemes and
running costs
Cross Cutting
Disability
Relevant as funding
is provided across a
wide range of
community groups
who support a wide
range of groups
requiring support
potentially including
disability groups
The service may
provide support to
community groups
with a specific focus
on disabilities
through the funding
levels provided
Reduction in funding
will negatively affect
the amount that
WDCVS can provide
to Community
groups who apply to
them for financial
support. These
groups are wide
ranging and the
funding to help
support social
transportation.
Social & Economic
Impact
The Council must
have due regard to
the Fairer Scotland
Duty in terms of
Social Economic
impacts and the
statutory guidance
The service acts to
provide funding for
social transport
(£100,000), play
schemes and
running costs
(£50,000) and the
Clydebank Asbestos
Group (£21,560)
Reduction in funding
will negatively affect
the amount that
WDCVS can provide
to Community
groups who apply to
them for financial
support. These
groups are wide
ranging.
Sex
Gender Reassign
Health
Clydebank Asbestos
Group support
people affected by
an asbestos-related
disease and their
families
The service acts to
provide funding to
Clydebank Asbestos
Group (£21,560)
Reduction in funding
will negatively affect
the amount that
Clydebank Asbestos
Group have to
support people
affected by an
asbestos-related
disease and their
families
Human Rights
Marriage & Civil
Partnership
Pregnancy &
Maternity
Race

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Religion and Belief
Sexual Orientation
Actions
Policy has a negative impact on an equality group,but is still to be implemented,
please provide justification for this.
Will the impact of the policy be monitored and reported on an ongoing bases?
Q7 What is you recommendation for this policy?
Intoduce
Please provide a meaningful summary of how you have reached the
recommendation
EIA 697 details potential impacts which, summarised is that a reduction in funding may
negatively affect community groups that support a wide range of users with either health
or disability issues. Reduced funding to voluntary groups could have an impact on the
groups and the services they provide to the community. Provision of this funding is not a
statutory requirement and therefore it has to be put forward as a saving option for
member consideration whilst setting out the implications of taking the option