URL: https://democracy.warwickshire.gov.uk/ieDecisionDetails.aspx?ID=1183

Decision Maker: Portfolio Holder for Customer and Localities

Outcome:

Is Key Decision?: Yes

Is Callable In?: No

Purpose: Report seeking approval to undertake a public consultation on the proposed decommissioning of the Council’s Equalities Service. Consultation is required to assess impacts and inform a final Cabinet decision.

Content: Councillor Bannister opened the portfolio holder decision session and introduced the report. He invited the public speaker, Mr Daniel Browne to address the room.   Mr Browne highlighted the importance of equality, equity and inclusion, and the role of EQuIP in supporting minority communities, including work on hate crime, discrimination, and support for refugees, asylum seekers and people with disabilities. He emphasised its value in enabling access to support networks regardless of identity and expressed concern about rising discrimination, stressing the need for continued support and understanding of minority communities’ needs.   Councillor Bannister thanked Mr Browne for his contribution and invited Councillors to speak.   Councillor Drew sought assurance that a core equalities service would continue to be commissioned. Concerns were raised about potential reputational damage and the impact on residents, noting that equality and diversity are fundamental to professional practice. It was highlighted that services such as EQuIP provide valuable support and help reduce demand on Council resources, potentially offsetting any savings, and that commitment in this area should be strengthened rather than reduced.   Councillor Boad raised concerns about consulting on ending the EQuIP contract before its expiry, questioning the timing and rationale. She highlighted EQuIP role in supporting equality and inclusion, including work with disabled people, partners and victims of hate crime, and noted the Council’s duties under the Equality Act 2010. She questioned how this work would continue if the contract ended, and, while acknowledging the cost (£135,000 per year), argued the service provides significant value and should be reconsidered.   Councillor Scott supported the principle of consultation but raised concerns about short timescales and reliance on online engagement, which may exclude vulnerable and digitally disadvantaged users. She questioned the lack of detail on potential cost efficiencies and whether EQuIP had been engaged, noting the relatively low contract value and the Council’s ongoing duties under the Equality Act. She highlighted the benefits of an external provider and EQuIP preventative work and sought clarity on how consultation findings would be reported and scrutinised, expressing concern about confidence in the process.   Councillor McAllister stated that she did not support consulting on ending the service, noting the report identified no performance issues and reflected a change in priorities. She highlighted EQuIP role in supporting those facing discrimination and hate crime, promoting community cohesion and supporting the Council’s equality duties, and drew attention to risks including loss of expertise and reduced support for vulnerable residents. She questioned why the service was singled out if savings were sought and argued that consultation should explore options rather than presuppose an outcome, supporting its withdrawal.   Councillor Feeney stated that she did not support consulting on closure of the service and emphasised the need to assess its value to residents. She highlighted EQuIP contribution to community cohesion, hate crime prevention and support for vulnerable groups, including its volunteer network and trusted community engagement. She noted its role in partnership and statutory work, and argued its preventative approach reduces escalation of issues. While acknowledging the contract cost (£135,000 per year), she suggested it represents good value in that context.   In conclusion, Councillor Bannister, the Portfolio Holder for Resources and Internal Affairs, clarified that the decision was to approve consultation only, not determine the future of EQuIP, and that no final decision would be made until responses were considered. He emphasised the need to avoid prejudging the outcome and rejected suggestions the proposal was predetermined, stating it reflected a review of how services are delivered in the context of financial pressures. He highlighted the Council’s responsibility to ensure value for money and noted the consultation would allow stakeholders to provide input before any decision. He concluded by authorising officers to proceed with the consultation as set out in the report.   Resolved That the Portfolio Holder for Customer and Localities approves the commencement of public consultation on ceasing to externally commission an equalities service as currently provided by the Equalities and Inclusion Partnership (EQuIP). and;   That the Portfolio Holder for Customer and Localities authorises?the Executive Director?for?Resources, in consultation with him, to?finalise the details of the consultation exercise (including the consultation documents) to undertake the consultation,?and to report back to Cabinet so that a decision on the future of the service can be made.     

Date of Decision: May 22, 2026