To consider the report setting out the findings, conclusions and resulting recommendations of a research project examining ‘minority ethnic people’s experiences in Herefordshire’.  An executive summary together with conclusions and recommendations are set out in the Appendices.  The full report is enclosed as a separate document for Cabinet Members and is available in the Members’ Room, on the Council’s website and on request.

THAT   (a)       the generally positive conclusions drawn from the research be noted, whilst recognising that there is no room for complacency and that there is still a great deal of work to be undertaken in ensuring that minority ethnic communities have equality of access to services and they are not discriminated against in the wider community,

(b)              it be noted that the actions taken to date will address some of the areas of concern raised in the report, and

(c)               the revised Race Equality Scheme and Action Plan which will include proposals to address the issues raised by this report be presented to Cabinet in April 2005 following a 6-week consultation period.

In its role as a direct service provider the Council has a duty to ensure equality of access to information, services and employment.  In its community leadership role the Council also has a duty to promote the integration of communities and racial harmony.

The report’s findings will be used to inform policy development in a number of areas including the revised Race Equality Scheme and Action Plan as required by the Race Relations Amendment Act 2000, which it is anticipated will be put before Cabinet for consideration on 24^th March, 2005.  The conclusions drawn from the research and resulting recommendations can be found at Appendix 2.

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