A new framework aimed at reducing poverty and inequality in Edinburgh has received unanimous backing from councillors.
Equal Edinburgh aims to make council and other services easier to access and understand for residents, while reducing the stigma associated with doing so.
The four-year plan draws on lessons learned from its predecessor (which ran from 2021–25), but more specifically from extensive engagement with communities and other partners, including the Scottish Government, Equality and Rights Network and Scottish Women’s Budget Group, carried out over the past 12 months.
Some of the key outcomes include:
- Safer and better access to council buildings
- Improved online access and clearer communication methods
- Improved mental health and wellbeing by making it easier to access services (in person or online)
- Better opportunities for residents to participate in local activities and events to reduce isolation and foster good community relations
- Improved data gathering and reporting so that decisions are made in an informed way
- Improved access for residents to have their say on citywide issues and to engage in consultation and voting processes
When setting the Council budget last month, councillors agreed to allocate £285,000 towards progressing the plan over next three years. Amongst other things, this will allow continued investment in the delivery of the British Sign Language Plan (2024-2030) and additional BSL Videos on the council website, funding for Volunteer Edinburgh to facilitate the Equalities and Rights Network and development of more inclusive communications.
From day one, Equal Edinburgh will support staff to provide high quality service to all residents and foster positive relationships with local communities through partnership working. A new EDI board will be set up to monitor progress and support delivery, with a progress update presented to councillors in 2028.
Councillor Jane Meagher Council Leader, said:
We’re clear that we want Edinburgh to be a city where everyone feels safe, secure and welcome – and we’ve set ourselves ambitious targets around tackling poverty and inequality.
This new framework celebrates the diversity of this city and our communities, made up of people with a rich variety of life experiences. I’m particularly pleased by the role our communities and other partners have played in shaping this work, and that we’re learning the lessons from what has gone before.
We’re building on best practice already underway across the city to deliver better services and outcomes for residents, ensuring that everyone has access to, and can benefit from, our support as quickly as possible – in a way that suits them.