Issue - meetings

The report provides an update to the Overview and Scrutiny Committee on how the Council is meeting the requirements of the Public Sector Equality Duty and how it is delivering on the Council’s equality and diversity policy, Fairer Enfield 2021-25 objectives and outcomes. The report also includes how the Council is tackling health inequality in Enfield with our partners in the Integrated Care Board.

Councillor Ergin Erbil, Deputy Leader of the Council introduced the item by thanking Officers for their hard work including the work of everyone on the Equalities Board. 

Harriet Potemkin, Head of Policy and Strategy presented the report and summarised how the Council is meeting the requirements of the Public Sector Equality Duty and how it is delivering on the Councils equality and diversity policy.

Members noted that Enfield are going above statutory duties under the 2010 Equality Act. Fairer Enfield was developed during the pandemic which sets out work in the community and explains the expectations of the workforce.

In response to questions from Members, Officers confirmed a Children’s Services specialist case worker is already in place and are taking referrals from primary care and GP’s.

In response to comments from Members, the Deputy Leader and Chair of the Equalities Board explained the board brings together key stakeholders including faither representatives, Age UK Enfield and LQBTQ+ representatives. The report highlights clear points on where a difference has been made and how inequalities have been tackled.

Officers noted the Members suggestion to make reports more transparent.

Members raised concerns on youth violence in the borough and the need to work more closely with key stakeholders. Officers explained a comprehensive report had gone to Crime Scrutiny Panel in December 2022, which is published on the website and available for all members to view, which details a programme of work which is address youth violence.

Following Members questions on food pantries, Officers explained that there are 2 local authority pantries in the Edmonton Library and Enfield Town Library. Users usually visit for a fixed period and are supported during this, including help with work opportunities. They are funded through council resources, the equalities fund and DWP housing fund.

Officers explained that they are tackling inequalities at GP services but working on the black health improvement project which involves training on an anti-racist approach. Work is also being done to make it easier for the homeless and gypsy community to access GP services.

ACTION: Invite Cllr Gina Needs Cabinet Member to a OSC meeting to discuss Community Safety and strategies being used to reduce youth violence.