Regional EQIA Forum
The Regional Equality Impact Assessment (EQIA) Forum was established in early 2024 to bring together public sector organisations across the East of England to strengthen how Equality Impact Assessments are developed and delivered. The Forum began as a small subgroup of the regional Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) network, initiated by Lila Begum, EDI Lead at Bedford Borough Council. Its purpose was to create a space for organisations to share learning, explore challenges, and identify opportunities to improve the quality and consistency of EQIAs across the region.
From the outset, the Forum brought together colleagues from local government, NHS partners, fire services, and other public bodies. Members shared their existing approaches, templates, and experiences, highlighting that while equality analysis is a legal requirement, there is no single national framework guiding how EQIAs should be conducted. This has resulted in varied approaches across organisations, particularly as teams work within increasing financial pressures and reduced capacity.
Through a series of meetings, training sessions, and collaborative workshops, Forum members worked together to develop a regional EQIA framework. The framework is designed to provide clear, practical, and scalable guidance that organisations can adapt to their own structures and resources. It aims to support better decision-making, strengthen governance and accountability, and help organisations meet their equality duties with confidence.
The EQIA Forum will continue to meet regularly to build regional knowledge, share best practice, and support ongoing learning across local authorities, NHS organisations, fire services, and other public sector partners. By working collaboratively, the group aims to strengthen equality analysis across the region and ensure that public policies and services better meet the needs of diverse communities.
We encourage colleagues across the region to join the conversation and contribute to this growing network of practice.
Contact Specialist Training Manager Rachel Heathcock at Rachel.Heathcock@localgoveasteng.gov.uk for more information.