Single Equality Framework

The objectives and prisms are a mechanism through which we can assess the reasoning and impact of our decisions before making them and ensure effective monitoring and outcome measurement thereafter. By applying this framework, the Council will also be able to determine what reasonable steps it might take to mitigate any negative impacts that might arise from the performance of its functions.

Equality objectives

In total there are five equality objectives, which set out the aims and aspirations of the Council over the lifetime of this Framework. The expectation is that the objectives are reflected in the way in which the Council conducts its business, makes decisions and provides services. 

The five equality objectives are:

• to ensure equal opportunities for marginalised and seldom heard communities
• to reduce the number of vulnerable people in the borough by tackling socio-economic inequality
• to improve the quality of life of residents by tackling preventable illnesses and diseases
• to ensure that services are designed and delivered to meet the needs of Lewisham’s diverse 
• to increase the number of people we support to become active citizens

Equality prisms

The objectives are complemented by six equality prisms. The prisms are questions that should be considered when making judgements about equality implications. The questions are intended to help the Council to better understand the type and severity of equality risk, before making decisions.

Data digest

An initial data digest was published in March 2020 and can be found below. An observatory was then established and this is now the primary resource for equality related data about the borough.