An EQIA stands for Equality Impact Assessment (sometimes also called Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion Assessment). It is a systematic process that organisations use to evaluate how their policies, programs, or services might affect different groups of people, especially those who share protected characteristics such as age, disability, gender, race, religion, or sexual orientation. The goal is to identify and prevent any unintentional discrimination or disadvantage, ensuring that the organisation’s actions promote fairness and inclusivity.

Who has to do an EQIA?
Typically, public sector organisations, government bodies, and many organisations that receive public funding are legally required to carry out EQIAs when developing or reviewing policies and services. However, it’s also considered good practice for private companies, non-profits, and any organisation committed to equality and diversity to conduct EQIAs. Essentially, anyone responsible for creating or changing policies, services, or projects should complete an EQIA to make sure their decisions are inclusive and equitable.

EQIA (Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion Assessment) support and development are important for organisations because they help ensure that policies, practices, and services do not unintentionally discriminate against or exclude any groups. By systematically assessing the impact of decisions on different communities, EQIA helps organisations identify and address potential inequalities before they arise. This proactive approach promotes fairness, fosters a more inclusive culture, and enhances organisational reputation. Additionally, EQIA support encourages continuous learning and development, enabling organisations to adapt to changing social expectations and legal requirements. Ultimately, embedding EQIA in organisational processes leads to better decision-making, improved service delivery, and stronger relationships with diverse stakeholders.