The new Hertfordshire Equalities Council (HEC) – the first of its kind in the country - was launched earlier this month and is a demonstration of how a cross-sector partnership can be successful in blazing a trail on a topical issue.
The idea of ‘people from different backgrounds getting along well together’ is growing in importance nationally, and in recognition of this, an Equalities Council has been launched in the county. In addition, a Cohesion Strategy is currently being compiled and work is alsobeing done under the banner of the LAA’s National Indicator 4, to deliver activity that promotes cohesion.
HEC will promote equality and human rights, to create a fairer Hertfordshire. The idea is to do this by providing advice and guidance to implement an effective equality strategy. A diverse partnership has already been formed to help set the foundations and core members will be co-opted over time. Interested parties are encouraged to get in touch.
HEC seeks to provide:
- A contribution to building stronger and more cohesive communities across Hertfordshire
- Independent engagement with communities
- Advice and support to victims of discrimination and harassment
- Support and challenge to organisations around equality, diversity and community cohesion issues
- Increased public awareness of diversity, equality and community cohesion.
If you would like further information or support, please contact email faizal.hakim@cdaforherts.org.uk or call 01707 695522.
My name is Maria Kraithman and I manage a voluntary sector organisation called Mediation Hertfordshire. We help neighbours in dispute by involving mediators, who listen to both sides of the dispute and bring the parties together to find a joint solution to their problems.
ReplyDeleteOur work helps to build cohesive communities by addressing the street-level situations between neighbours which can, if left to escalate, lead to much more serious instances of anti-social behaviour and harassment.
I have responded to the draft Community Cohesion strategy, which features our work as a case study, and would be very interested in being part of the group which takes this strategy forward once the strategy and action plan are in place.