Equality and diversity

We are committed to equality of opportunity for all people within our community. We have published a range of policies and reports which show how we are meeting our legal duties.

Everyone should have the same chances to do what they can but some people may need extra help. The Equality Act 2010 intends to make Britain a fairer and equal place for everyone. We have a duty to:

• eliminate discrimination, harassment and victimisation
• promote equality of opportunity
• foster good relations between people who share a protected characteristic and those who do not

Monitoring equality

Equality monitoring helps us comply with legislation.

We routinely monitor equality and diversity information, for example as part of forms and surveys. All answers are confidential and help us to continually improve our services and ensure that we get them right.

Impact assessments

We assess whether the decisions we make are likely to impact on different groups of people across the region through impact assessments. 

The results of our impact assessments should highlight any barriers or discrimination that might affect people using our services.

British Sign Language (BSL)

The BSL (Scotland) Act 2015 requires public bodies in Scotland to publish plans every 6 years, showing how they will promote and support BSL.

Our second BSL was published in June 2024 and was developed through engagement with our local community. It is a reflection of the insight provided by the participants and our shared ambitions for our work over the next 6 years.  

Go to British Sign Language (BSL) Plan 2024 to 2030

Deaf BSL users can contact us through Contact Scotland BSL. They provide a free online BSL interpreting video relay service (VRS) 24/7.  

The deaf BSL user must be registered with Contact Scotland BSL and have the app downloaded to their device.  This service can also be used to contact GPs, workplaces and family and friends.

Working with our partners

We are part of the Community Planning partnership in Dumfries and Galloway, along with representatives from a wide range of partners, including:

• DGVoice
• Dumfries and Galloway Interfaith Group
• Dumfries and Galloway Multicultural Association
• LGBT Plus
• LGBT Youth Scotland

We work with our partners to challenge the barriers that people face arising from discrimination and disadvantage in line with 9 protected characteristics:

• age
• gender reassignment
• marriage and civil partnership
• pregnancy and maternity
• disability
• race
• religion or belief
• sex
• sexual orientation

Go to working groups – Dumfries and Galloway Community Planning

Equality Outcomes 2025 to 2029