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Equality and Diversity

Swindon Equality Coalition and Voluntary Action Swindon, working with Swindon’s diverse communities to ensure Swindon becomes a beacon for equality of access and opportunity for all. 

Equality in Swindon

Voluntary Action Swindon (VAS) is committed to advancing equality and inclusion in Swindon. To do this, we work closely with Swindon Borough Council (SBC) and across the local voluntary sector to build networks, raise awareness, and take action where needed.

Reaching out to and engaging with diverse groups and people in Swindon is something we are often asked about – here is the Coalition’s information sheet: Community Consultation Considerations.

As well as setting our own agenda, we are commissioned by SBC to provide advice and support to help the council deliver its equality and inclusion duties.

Swindon Equality Coalition

Our big focus to achieve these these goals is the Swindon Equality Coalition (SEC), for which VAS provides support and administration. SEC is a network of people and organisations with a shared goal of promoting and supporting equality, diversity and inclusion throughout the Borough.

The coalition highlights positive change and good practice, questions and challenges decision-makers, to ensure Swindon becomes a beacon for equality of access and opportunity. You can more about the coalition and it’s core group about document …and some of the activities we got involved in are mentioned in our newsletter

Swindon Diversity Summit

Reach the Summit – a free half-day event to explore inclusion & diversity in Swindon

Book now to join our first Swindon Diversity Summit, February 14, 2024.  Join keynote speakers, panel discussions and resources to dig deep into issues around diversity and inclusion. The event aims to help voluntary and community organisations in Swindon reach out, break down barriers, and become more inclusive.

Book your place now at www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/swindon-diversity-summit-tickets-731852138447
This is an in-person event, being held at Central Community Centre SN1 5BP.

Breaking Barriers

Breaking Barriers event - logo

Breaking Barriers was an online event for Swindon’s voluntary organisations to share how we are approaching the challenges of ED&I, as well as progress we’ve made so far. 

Some 20 local organisation presented their ‘EDI journey’ and each block of presentations was followed by questions, discussions and ideas. A summary of the key points and discussion that took place over the week is here

A forum for young people in Swindon

Young people’s voices around equality and inclusion have never been more important. VAS has been working with youth organisations from around Swindon to develop Swindon Youth Voice – a project to build skills and confidence of young people, and make sure their voices are heard.

Following the initial meetings in 2020 and 2021, as well as a survey of young people (over 100 replied) and focus groups, we submitted a funding proposal to the National Lottery for a 4-year grand to fund the project. The successful application means we now have a project manager in place and – as of April 2023 – the project is underway.

Join the coalition

Membership of the Swindon Equality Coalition is open to people and organisations living or working  in Swindon and sharing the coalition’s mission. You can join the coalition by a simple email to equality@vas-swindon.org

Members will receive regular updates and news by email – SEC members are encouraged to raise issues and share ideas, particularly related to local communities and specific protected characteristics. We will be asking our members to get involved with consultations, events and campaigns – let us know your ideas.