Equality 2025

Equality 2025 was previously a forum on disability issues, a paper explaining it's purpose is attached to this document.

In December 2006 it was launched as an advisory NDPB, with the intent that it would serve the disability sector in a similar way to WNC and the Women's sector.

They do not have a Chair, instead they have two rotating roles of 'facilitators' together with a management subcommittee which agree the agenda.

There are 23 'members' who are publicly appointed. They are paid for attending meetings and for necessary preparation time.

They should meet quarterly, but are currently having to meet monthly due to their new status.

Their budget is around £450,000, excluding salaries. However, the extensive accessibility costs of ensuring all 23 members' are fully able to take part (transcription, re-typing, sign language interpretation, etc.) means the actual budget for work is lower than this.

They currently tend to focus on issues, rather than running consultation type events, so the comparisons with WNC may need to be put in that context.

Their staffing structure will be altered as their role develops, but currently they have four staff, but are able to call on the resources of their parent department (DWP) for some items, especially from the senior civil service where they need high level advice on their changing remit.

WNC/07/3/04A