Equality & diversity
The Scottish Funding Council's work is underpinned by the core principles of equality and diversity and we are committed to address the uneven pattern of participation in education.
All members of the community wishing to participate in further and higher education have a right to fair, equitable and open access to learning programmes provided by colleges and universities.
We recognise that an increase in access to these programmes does not necessarily decrease inequality between advantaged and disadvantaged groups.
SFC, therefore, acknowledges that the Disability, Gender and Race Equality Duties place specific obligations on it not only to eliminate discrimination but also to actively promote equality of opportunity, participation, and positive attitudes.
Moreover, that the six strands of equality legislation relating to:
- Race;
- Gender;
- Disability;
- Religion and Belief;
- Sexual Orientation; and
- Age
require colleges and universities to take reasonable steps to do the same.
In this context, SFC embraces the emerging areas of equality legislation, recognising that the forthcoming Equality Bill will create a simpler, unified equalities structure to help support inclusive institutions.
This is reflected in our new SFC 2009 Single Equality Scheme, published in July 2009 and which is available to download.
Updates on the actions contained within the scheme will be published here.
The first annual report will be published in July 2010.
Underpinning the Council's work is our Equality Impact Assessment process. This is our means of considering whether the work of SFC has negative impact upon different equality groups.
Published EIAs will appear on our website along with our schedule and timetable of assessment.
Within our approach, the Council recognises it has a leadership role on equality and diversity. This is particularly relevant on issues of awareness, understanding and skills to ensure colleges and universities do not discriminate but implement systems that will promote and enable them to benefit from diversity and inclusion.
Information & resources
Equality & diversity information & resources provides further useful information and links related to equality and diversity.