08 February 2012
Delegates from local government and the NHS in Wales will today come together at a joint conference to discuss how to progress the equality agenda in challenging times. The joint WLGA/NHS Equality Champions Conference will be held in Cardiff and will include speakers from national and local government and the NHS. The Conference will be chaired by the Older People’s Commissioner for Wales, Ruth Marks MBE.
The specific aims of the conference are:
- To consider the importance of leadership and commitment to equality in order to deliver outcome focused services
- To highlight the importance of the role of an equality champion in promoting equality across the public sector in Wales
- To share the experiences of an organisation who are excelling in the area of equality
- To share ideas and experiences with colleagues across the Welsh public sector
Cllr Andrew Hinchcliff (Conwy), WLGA Deputy Spokesperson for Equality said:
“This is an excellent opportunity for local government and the NHS in Wales to come together to hear more about issues such as the role of an equality champion following the introduction of the Equality Act 2010, the Welsh Government’s specific duties and to discuss the importance of leadership in delivering the equality agenda in challenging times.”
“It is one in a series of events organised jointly by the Welsh Local Government Association and the NHS Centre for Equality and Human Rights to support local government, NHS Health Boards and Trusts and to meet the public sector equality duties which will come into force in Wales in April 2012.”
Sian Marie James, Vice-Chair of Hywel Dda Health Board speaking at the event said:
"The word outcome is one we are hearing a lot these days. So what we need is an NHS that delivers the best outcomes for its population. More importantly that we meet the needs and rights of everyone in our community. The equality duties in Wales rightfully hold us to account on this."
For more information contact: Lucy Sweet
