Croydon Council has produced a new four-year plan to boost the prospects of all residents and make the borough a fairer place through tackling inequality and disadvantage.
From raising achievements in education and job skills to improving residents’ physical and mental health, the updated Equalities Strategy is designed to encourage greater equity, fairness and inclusion for all local people.
Each year of the strategy contains targets designed to improve equity of opportunity for all Croydon residents, regardless of their sex, race, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, disability, age, religion or beliefs.
In year one this includes introducing anonymous application processes for all council recruitment and providing more local apprenticeships paying the London Living Wage.
Priority is also given to raising school achievement in target groups, including children in care, and reducing social isolation especially among the elderly or those with disabilities.
The strategy, which was approved at Full Council on 8 March, will also include an Equality Pledge that commits public, voluntary or private sector organisations to sign up to a set of values that appreciate the benefits that different communities contribute to the borough.
Last summer the council consulted residents, community groups and voluntary sector organisations online and by telephone to shape the updated strategy. Feedback included supporting those affected by Covid-19 and addressing the disproportionate treatment of young people by police and in education.
“I am very proud of the diverse communities we have in Croydon, but hardship and disadvantage remain barriers to many of our residents.
“Tackling ingrained inequality in the borough is a council priority, and this updated plan will bring greater fairness and opportunities to help all our residents live their lives to the full.”
Councillor David Wood, cabinet member for communities, safety and resilience
To read the Equalities Strategy, visit the council website.
