Creating a fairer Britain
30 November 2011
The Equality and Human Rights Commission is to work with Somerset and Gloucestershire County Councils to review their decision-making systems after a judge’s ruling overturned changes to library services in both counties on equality grounds.
The proposals would have seen libraries transfer from council control to local communities. However, a judicial review brought by campaigners against the proposed changes was told that while both councils were within their rights to reduce funding to libraries, the processes by which they had come to their decision did not fully comply with equality legislation.
Mark Hammond, Chief Executive of the Equality and Human Rights Commission said:
“I’m pleased to be working with both Somerset and Gloucestershire County Councils to help them comply with equality legislation. Policies based on a sound knowledge of how decisions may impact on vulnerable groups will help ensure these service users don’t lose out as budgets are tightened, as well saving time and money for the councils themselves as they avoid costly and time-consuming legal challenges.”
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For more press information contact the Commission’s media office on 020 3117 0255, out of hours 07767 272 818.
For general enquiries please contact the Commission’s national helpline: England 0845 604 6610, Scotland 0845 604 5510 or Wales 0845 604 8810.
The Equality and Human Rights Commission is a statutory body established under the Equality Act 2006. It is the independent advocate for equality and human rights in Britain. It aims to reduce inequality, eliminate discrimination, strengthen good relations between people, and promote and protect human rights. The Commission enforces equality legislation on age, disability, gender, race, religion or belief, sexual orientation or transgender status, and encourages compliance with the Human Rights Act. It also gives advice and guidance to businesses, the voluntary and public sectors, and to individuals.