The Equality Act 2010 (the Act) replaces the previous anti-discrimination laws with a single Act

Equality Impact Analysis Template

Equality Impact Analysis (EqIA) (or Equality Impact Assessment) aims to make services and public policy better for all service-users and staff and supports value for money by getting council services right first time.

We use EqIAs to enable us to consider all relevant information from an Equality requirements perspective when procuring or restructuring a service or introducing a new policy or strategy. This analysis of impacts is then reflected in the relevant action plan to get the best outcomes for the Council, its staff and service-users.

EqIAs are used to analyse and assess how the Council’s work might impact differently on different groups of people. EqIAs help the Council to make good decisions for its service-users, staff and residents and provide evidence that those decision conform with the Council’s obligations under the Equality Act 2010.

This template sets out the steps you need to take to complete an EqIA for your project. If you have any questions about your EqIA and/or how to complete this form, please use the contact details at the end of this form.

Title of Project/Service/Policy	Libraries Capital Program 2022-23 Rye Library
Team/Department	Library and Information Service
Directorate	Communities, Economy & Transport
Provide a comprehensive description of your Project (Service/Policy, etc.) including its Purpose and Scope	In 2022-23 the service will undertake the refurbishment of Rye library. The proposed works will be undertaken in accordance with the Council’s Capital Strategy which states investment will be undertaken in order to maintain libraries in a safe and suitable condition from which to deliver the outcomes of the Libraries Strategic Commissioning Strategy (LSCS). For further information on the analysis undertaken please refer to Technical Appendix 1 of the Strategy– Needs Assessment in the new strategy.

Initial assessment of whether your project requires an EqIA

When answering these questions, please keep in mind all legally protected equality characteristics (sex/gender, gender reassignment, religion or belief, age, disability, ethnicity/race, sexual orientation, marriage/civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity) of the people actually or potentially receiving and benefiting from the services or the policy.

In particular consider whether there are any potential equality related barriers that people may experience when getting to know about, accessing or receiving the service or the policy to be introduced or changed.

Discuss the results of your Equality assessment with the Equality Lead for your department and agree whether improvements or changes need to be made to any aspect of your Project.

	Question	Yes	No	Don’t Know
1	Is there evidence of different needs, experiences, issues or priorities on the basis of the equality characteristics (listed below) in relation to the service or policy/strategy area?	Yes
2	Are there any proposed changes in the service/policy that may affect how services are run and/or used or the ways the policy will impact different groups?	Yes
3	Are there any proposed changes in the service/policy that may affect service-users/staff/residents directly?	Yes
4	Is there potential for, or evidence that, the service/policy may adversely affect inclusiveness or harm good relations between different groups of people?		No
5	Is there any potential for, or evidence that any part of the service/aspects of the policy could have a direct or indirect discriminatory effect on service-users/staff/residents?		No
6	Is there any stakeholder (Council staff, residents, trade unions, service-users, VCSE organisations) concerned about actual, potential, or perceived discrimination/unequal treatment in the service or the Policy on the basis of the equality characteristics set out above that may lead to taking legal action against the Council?		No
7	Is there any evidence or indication of higher or lower uptake of the service by, or the impact of the policy on, people who share the equality characteristics set out above?	Yes

If you have answered “YES” or “DON’T KNOW” to any of the questions above, then the completion of an EqIA is necessary.

The need for an EqIA will depend on:

· How many questions you have answered “yes”, or “don’t know” to;

· The likelihood of the Council facing legal action in relation to the effects of service or the policy may have on groups sharing protected characteristics; and

· The likelihood of adverse publicity and reputational damage for the Council.

Low risk	Medium risk	High risk
x

1. Update on previous EqIAs and outcomes of previous actions (if applicable)

What actions did you plan last time? (List them from the previous EqIA)	What improved as a result? What outcomes have these actions achieved?	What further actions do you need to take? (add these to the Action Plan below)
Not applicable: no previous EqIA on these proposals

2. Review of information, equality analysis and potential actions

Consider the actual or potential impact of your project (service, or policy) against each of the equality characteristics.

Protected characteristics groups under the Equality Act 2010	What do you know? Summary of data about your service-users and/or staff	What do people tell you? Summary of service-user and/or staff feedback	What does this mean? Impacts identified from data and feedback (actual and potential)	What can you do? All potential actions to: · advance equality of opportunity, · eliminate discrimination, and · foster good relations
Age	Data from our latest strategy states that 45% of regular adult visitors to libraries in East Sussex are aged 65 and half are retired. We also have results from the Oct 2021 Plus survey (undertaken every three years). Please note this survey is undertaken with all those physically visiting a library, therefore does not take into account those accessing e-offers and resources. 36% of visitors to the library during the surveying period were aged 65-74. This is 10% higher than the weighted E Sussex average for all respondents. 11% were aged 35-44 and 15% aged 55-64 respectively.	For some older residents, visiting the library and engaging with staff may be one of a few, if not the only, interaction during their day. The role of the library building and overall service is to provide an inclusive environment and provide services that encourages older residents to continue visiting. Older residents have advised that the library service is one of few places they can receive the advice and assistance they require to access materials or services that are solely available online. Therefore access to our public computers remains key to customers in this age group. Young adults (16 – 24-year-olds) disproportionately underuse the library. Having sought feedback from younger stakeholders, they would like to see the LIS provide wider range of materials regarding mental health support as well materials relating to environmental concerns. This is an issue recognised nationally by library services.	Given that almost half of frequent users of libraries are aged 65 and over, those in this age category have the potential to be disproportionately affected by the changes to the building as a result of delivering the capital program. However older people (aged 75+), are likely to be most affected by the changes due to the increased likelihood of reduced mobility. Changes to the internal layout of the library building must take this into account when planning and designing the space. Those aged 75+ are also known to be less likely to use the internet, and therefore the eLibrary, due to a lack of skills. Age is a key factor in people’s level of digital skills and therefore use of the internet. Buildings must therefore continue to access public computers as well as facilitate space for training (e.g. IT for You) to enable older residents to access resources provided within the building.	Accessibility – an access audit has been undertaken as part of assessing the proposed works. This will include a review of physical accessibility to the library space. Corporate Property teams will then review in conjunction with the LIS to ascertain what works can be brought into scope. NB: It is worth noting that this building is leasehold and situated in a conservation area which may restrict changes available. Stock will be assessed by the librarian team as part of the refurbishment (see action plan). The request for quotes undertaking the internal fit out of the library will ensure that stock is not placed too low (or too high) meaning that certain age groups would struggle to access stock. Weeding will take place of unsued or ou of date material and replaced with stock suited to the reader base of the area. Stock reports will be undertaken to carry out this work effectively and aim to better meet the needs of customers. This refurbishment attracts a small contribution of Section 106 funds from developments within the local area. This will be used to re-create the childrens/ teen section of the library and aim to make this more attractive for younger customers aiming to support the underrepresentation of this age group using the service. Please refer to Plus data excel sheet (link at the end of this document) for detailed age breakdown of users. The service will hold a launch event once the works are completed to encourage active membership from young people. Separately as part of BAU LIS activity the service is working with relationships with schools/ colleges to encourage work experience placements, hoping to raise the profile of the service with this cohort to support possible volunteers, recruitment of library assistants and general engagement in what the service has to offer. Recent communications campaigns have also focussed on the library as being a good place to connect (with devices and people) making the library a good place to study.
Disability	The results of the Libraries Strategic Commissioning Strategy consultation, held in 2017, showed that 15% of respondents identified themselves as having a disability, compared to 20.3% of residents of East Sussex who have a long-term health condition or disability. For comparison the Plus survey highlighted that 26% of respondents stated that they had a disability which is higher than previous surveys have reported.	Rye has level access on one floor. There is a lift which is used by staff to access the workroom, this will be upgraded as part of the works as it is at the end of its life, so will support teams to deliver the service efficiently.	The needs assessment has identified that there are health and wellbeing needs which the Library and Information Service can meet by running a number of initiatives within the building. For example IT for You partners with NHS to signpost users in need to library activities/ getting people online to reduce digital exclusion, improve connectivity with friends and family and add digital skills to administer appointments online where needed.	The service will continue to work with Property Services to consider and/or address any building amendments required to provide or ease access to our buildings to ensure that the program ensures that Rye compliant where possible, making reasonable adjustments to support customers accessing the service where possible. Decorations will take into account accessibility and specifications have been written into the works for main contractor to ensure there is variance between colour palettes to support this. The Property Maintenance team have assessed Rye lift, and have agreed that it is at the end of life and requires replacement. This will ensure that frequent issues with the lift failing are mitigated. The request for quote documentation has also included accessibility requirements in the design considerations which prospective contractors will need to articulate in any possible schemes. Finally in 2022 all libraries will be fitted with hearing loops at the counter to support those with hearing impairments.
Gender reassignment	No data available from previous surveys.	No feedback received from service users or staff.	The LIS is committed to making trans-inclusive spaces. Given lack of current information, the service will explore this characteristic further and take this into account with any proposed capital works going forward.	The LIS will continue to work with local and national partners to ensure the service provides a welcoming environment for transgender and non-binary people. The LIS will continue to work with local and national partners to ensure the service provides a welcoming environment for transgender and non-binary people Rye has two public and three staff toilets. All toilets are separate, lockable cubicles and are unisex. We will ensure that as part of the redecoration, there is clear signage which will continue to reflect this. The LIS team support the corporate LGBTQ+ group with team members within the group and staff in libraries wearing lanyards where possible. We will showcase events that are inclusive and continually review how we operate to support these groups within our communities.
Pregnancy and maternity	No data available from previous surveys.	For individuals in this category, the access and use of lifts within library buildings is critical. For Rye the open plan floor will be retained to ensure easy access with buggies/ pushchairs.	Lifts, easy access to seating to rest/ feed babies is important to provide throughout library buildings. Additionally any mother/ parent or guardian can feed their baby in a library at any time.	We will design our spaces so that pregnant/ new mothers have adequate spaces to sit/ stay/ feed within the library. The revised library layout will include a complete re-design of the children’s area, utilising the S106 funding and aim to improve access to new and expectant mothers to access literature and events (such as Rhymetime and Storytime) for young children.
Race/ethnicity Including migrants, refugees and asylum seekers	The response rate from all white respondents to 2018’s PULSE survey was 94%. This is identical to the most recent census data from 2011. The Plus Survey in Oct 2021 found that 94% of respondents were White British. These three datasets are helpful in understanding an overall average from three surveys taken place during different periods. During the development of the Libraries Strategic Commissioning Strategy in 2018, a need was identified to support reading and literacy among refugee families in some communities. The service is aware of an increasing requirement to work with people of different races and ethnicities. Adequate agile spaces in buildings will continue to be important to deliver key outcomes of the LSCS.	EAL book stock can be delivered and colleagues in Audience Development are keen to support emerging groups as needed. E.g. Libraries are supporting Ukrainian refugees with books, resources responding to the sponsoring scheme.	The LIS Capital Program is not considered to have an impact for library users from different ethnic backgrounds as buildings will continue to offer flexibility of space for any planned library initiatives.	Consider future possible activities in the delivery of LSCS and ensure that buildings are fit for purpose. Aim to position the library as available to all through marketing campaigns. Ensure marketing is representative. (June 2022 E Sussex campaign recently had BAME models to showcase diversity within the campaign).
Religion or belief	From 2018’s PULSE survey, 56% of those who stated a religion or faith indicated they were a Christian. The next most selected answer was ‘No religion’ which was selected by 38% of those who completed the survey. In the Oct 2021 Plus survey this increased to 57% Christian with 40% stating they had no religious affiliation.	No feedback received from service users or staff.	The LIS Capital Program is not considered to have an impact for library users with different religions.	Staff will continue to promote an inclusive environment for people of all faiths and beliefs.
Sex/Gender	The results of the 2018 consultation showed that 68% of respondents were female. Similarly, data from other user surveys indicates that on average 62% of library users are female. Women therefore have the potential to be disproportionately affected by changes as they represent a higher number of our customers.	No feedback received from service users or staff. We survey regularly looking at varying areas of satisfaction with the service. We have had no comments in relation to the offer/ building in relation to gender to date	The LIS Capital Program is not considered to have an impact for library users of different sex/gender.	Buildings that are maintained to a good standard will allow events to be hosted throughout the year including Men’s Health Week and Women’s History Month.
Sexual orientation	The statistics for current library users, collected in 2018, match the most recent data for East Sussex.	No feedback received from service users or staff.	The LIS Capital Program is not considered to have an impact for library users of different sexual orientations.	The LIS will continue to work with local partners to ensure a safe and accessible environment is open to the LGBTQ+ community. Again, buildings that are maintained to an acceptable standard will continue to operate as safe spaces which can host events and activities. Link to gender reassignment statement – LIS team working on corporate LGBTQ+ working group to support and promote this group’s needs where possible. Events are being considered at multiple locations to ensure they are as inclusive as possible. E.g. individual risk assessment taken place at Hastings to ensure event was accessible and participants/ leads not subjected to discrimination.
Marriage and civil partnership	There are no disproportionate impacts upon people sharing this characteristic.	No feedback received from service users or staff.	The LIS Capital Program is not considered to have an impact for library users of different relationship statuses including those married or in a civil partnership.	No actions have been identified as necessary at this stage.
Impacts on community cohesion	N/A	Staff have advised that events such as Rhymetime and Storytime in library buildings have a positive effect in terms of community cohesion by presenting an opportunity for families to meet. The Plus survey also asked a question about loneliness after Covid 19 and numerous lockdowns. On average 19% of Rye respondents felt occasionally lonely. (weighted E Sussex average was 22%)	The maintenance and upkeep of library buildings provides the physical safe environment for the activities for local community groups to access.	Undertake annual maintenance on LIS property and ensure the Capital Program is delivered in a timely manner. The facilities offered within a library help combat loneliness by providing a meeting point, events and activities to take part and meet people, as well as a safe space to connect with others via the public computers with friends/ relatives or a meeting opportunity within the library itself. The internal fit out for Rye will include a soft furnishings, to support areas where people can meet and relax. This will support events and activities which the Service is keen to promote to combat loneliness within the community.

Additional categories

(identified locally as potentially causing / worsening inequality)

Characteristic	What do you know?	What do people tell you?	What does this mean?	What can you do?
Other groups that may be differently affected (including but not only: homeless people, substance users, care leavers)	No specific data about other groups available from previous surveys	Partners in health care and social services have identified the library buildings as important spaces for the wellbeing of homeless and rough sleepers. Clients do not want to be identified but can be supported if needed. It is a warm, safe and welcoming space for individuals to have as much or as little interaction as they choose. They are a diverse range of ages and backgrounds.	The organisations working in this area see the creation of relaxed drop in areas as a way of supporting homeless and rough sleepers. Library buildings are centrally located, warm and can easily facilitate this when working in partnership.	As above, the maintenance of library buildings is key to continuing to deliver the LSCS priorities in supporting these groups within the wider community.
Assessment of overall impacts and any further recommendations - include assessment of cumulative impacts (where a change in one service/policy/project may have an impact on another)
https://services.escc.gov.uk/sites/LIB/Statistics/Rye%20PLUS%20comments.pdf Comments recently received as part of the PLUS survey have been reviewed as part of this EQIA and the internal fit out proposals for the library. This survey takes place every three years and allows the LIS to review operational activity and make changes where possible. This data has been analysed and is available for review here: https://services.escc.gov.uk/sites/LIB/Statistics/EastSussex_Headline%20Report%20PLUS.xlsx?Web=1

3. List detailed data and/or community feedback that informed your EqIA

Source and type of data (e.g. research, or direct engagement (interviews), responses to questionnaires, etc.)	Date	Gaps in data	Actions to fill these gaps: who else do you need to engage with? (add these to the Action Plan below, with a timeframe)
PLUS survey	2018	This survey did not ask questions about all protected characteristics.	A service-specific assessment of 2021 Census data completed when the data is published in 2022.
Public Consultation – Libraries Strategy	2018	This survey did not ask questions about all protected characteristics.	A service-specific assessment of 2021 Census data completed when the data is published in 2022.
Consultation with LIS staff	Aug – Sep 2021	There were some protected characteristics that no verbatim, anecdotal feedback was provided about.	It was identified that staff did not regularly log issues, both positive and negative, regarding the use of LIS by people who share varying protected characteristics. From 2022, staff will be encouraged to do this.
Plus Survey	2021	This survey did not ask questions about all protected characteristics.	This has been a helpful comparison to the 2018 dataset. We will review when latest Census statistics are available.

4. Prioritised Action Plan

NB: These actions must now be transferred to service or business plans and monitored to ensure they achieve the outcomes identified.

Impact identified and group(s) affected	Action planned	Expected outcome	Measure of success	Timeframe
Age Older people may find changes to the library layout difficult to navigate	Ensure that access audit considers age of customer. Also work with library design specialists who understand the profile of library users in East Sussex to create a design that works for residents.	Improved layout of library as a result of refurbishment	No complaints/ issues raised by public as a result of changes in library layout.	Annually in accordance with the program.
Age: younger people less likely to use the library Pregnancy & maternity: access to books and resources	This refurbishment attracts a small contribution of Section 106 funds from developments within the local area. This will be used to re-create the children’s/ teen section of the library	Make this library more attractive for younger customers aiming to support the underrepresentation of this age group Increase provision of literature for those who are pregnant/new parents	Increased numbers of younger users and access by new/expectant parents.	As part of refurb, then ongoing monitoring.
Disability Access audits are on a rolling program undertaken by Property. These are not always available in conjunction with the Capital Program	Libraries to commission accessibility audits as part of capital program and recharge Property, to ensure works are compliant and needs assessed.	Buildings are compliant with required standards where possible.	Completed access audit	Annually in accordance with the program.
Disability: provision for deaf and hearing impaired people	All libraries will be fitted with hearing loops at the counter to support those with hearing impairments	Better access and support for deaf and hearing impaired people	Works completed and in operation	In 2022
Sexual orientation Gender reassignment A lack of information regarding those who use the LIS and whether this group has a barrier to the service as a result of the building.	Analyse the findings of the LGBTQ+ Joint Strategic Needs Assessment by the management team.	Any findings within the report that highlight there are barriers to certain public venues could be reviewed as part of forthcoming capital works.	Any proposed changes made to buildings as a result to be considered in line with the delivery of the program and incorporated where possible (in line with Capital Program parameters)	2022 – 2027
All: ensuring stock meets diverse needs	Stock will be assessed by the librarian team as part of the refurbishment	Opportunity to check stock reflects all library users’s needs and choices as well as possible .	Completion of review and responding to gaps	As part of refurbishment
Pregnancy and maternity: access and breastfeeding	We will design our spaces so that pregnant/ new mothers have adequate spaces to sit/ stay/ feed within the library.	Better support and spaces for breastfeeding and seating.	Spaces installed and in use	As part of refurbishment
All: encouraging use of whole range of library facilities	Aim to position the library as available to all through marketing campaigns	Wider range of people aware of what libraries offer and confident to access	Library users and equality monitoring / feedback	From library opening and ongoing
Community cohesion: combating loneliness	The internal fit out for Rye will include a soft furnishings, to support areas where people can meet and relax.	Support events and activities to combat loneliness within the community	New space in place and being used; activities and events being held and attracting wide range of people	As part of refurbishment

EqIA sign-off: (for the EqIA to be final an email must be sent from the relevant people agreeing it, or this section must be signed)

Staff member competing Equality Impact Analysis: Sam McManus (last updated date)

Date: 09/08/2022

Directorate Management Team rep or Head of Service: Natalie Anderson Date: 11/08/2022

Equality lead: Sarah Tighe-Ford Date: 08/11/2022