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.
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.
Breaking Barriers
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 ideas for a Swindon youth forum – the new forum will provide a space for you to share ideas and opinions, to build confidence and skills, and to have a real impact on the world around us.
There were several meetings over the course of 2020 and 2021, as well as a survey of young people (over 100 replied) and focus groups, to see what kind of forum would be well-received. These discussions culminated in the submission of a funding proposal to the National Lottery for a 4-year grand to fund the forum. We’re currently waiting feedback on that initial submission.
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.