Equality objectives

We are committed to building a fairer, more inclusive Gloucestershire where everyone is treated with dignity and respect, and where services are shaped around the diverse needs of our communities.

Our equality objectives set out how we will champion equality, reduce barriers, and improve opportunities and outcomes for people who face disadvantage or discrimination. They help us turn our values into practical action that makes a real difference.

These objectives form part of our Council Strategy 2025-2029, and sit beneath Outcome 16, helping to put our commitment to equality and inclusion into practice by focusing on listening to communities, and working together to shape the right solutions.

Our vision: A Stronger Future, Built Together

We want Gloucestershire to be a place where people are treated fairly, feel welcome and included, and can access the services and opportunities they need to thrive. A county where communities are supported by a council that listens, learns and works with partners to make a positive difference to everyday lives.

Our equality objectives 2025-2029

Setting equality objectives is an important way for us to demonstrate our commitment to equality, diversity, inclusion and belonging, and to ensure we remain true to our organisational values of accountability, empowerment, integrity, respect and excellence.

Our equality objectives describe how we support the Council’s vision and put these values into practice.

1. Champion equality and inclusion across everything we do

Strengthening leadership, accountability and shared responsibility so that equality and inclusion are consistently considered in how decisions are made, services are designed and policies are developed. This objective focuses on building on existing work and ensuring inclusive practice is embedded across our organisation.

2. Build stronger connections with local communities and groups

Improving how people experience our services by strengthening relationships, listening more effectively and making it easier for residents and communities to communicate with us. This includes using a mix of formal engagement and more informal ways of staying in touch, so that a wide range of voices are heard and respected.

3. Work alongside communities to shape and deliver solutions together

Working in partnership with communities based on what matters most to them, and drawing on lived experience to inform our approach. This objective is about meaningful involvement, stronger relationships with community and voluntary organisations, and reducing practical barriers that can limit participation.

4. Keep developing a motivated workforce that reflects the diversity of our communities

Supporting fair and inclusive recruitment, development and progression, while continuing to strengthen leadership capability and inclusive ways of working. This helps create a workplace where colleagues feel valued, respected, supported and able to contribute fully.

5. Actively seek out partners and stakeholders and work together

Building and strengthening relationships with partners, stakeholders and suppliers to support inclusive outcomes for Gloucestershire. This includes working collaboratively through commissioning, procurement and joint activity where it adds value and benefits residents and communities.