Empowerment

Programme Activity

EM IEP has worked strategically with partners in the East Midlands including EM Neighbourhood Resource Centres to increase the capacity of local authorities and local communities to meet the challenges presented by the Localism Bill.

The Empowerment Awards recognised resident-run projects that found solutions to local problems. Details of the "Seeing is Believing Visits" that followed can be found on the EM IEP website. "Seeing is Believing" visits may be organised by ONE East Midlands and Business in the Community - details can be found at BiTC, ONE EM, EMEP. www.bitc.org.uk/east_midlands www.one-em.org.uk http://www.emep.org.uk

The Community Engagement and Cultural Change Awards http://www.emep.org.uk/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=188&ltemid=89  illustrate that collaborative relationships between public sector can lead to enhanced service delivery and facilities.

In order to support both local and authorities deal with the new "Right to Buy" being made available to communities through the Localism Bill, EM IEP has developed a checklist that local authorities can use with community groups. The checklist can be found on EM IEP website. Additional information is provided in the "New Models of Service" presentations. www.communitymatters.org.uk  is also a valuable source of information.

In 2013 local authorities will take on the function of joining up commissioning of local NHS services, social care & health improvement through the establishment of Health & Wellbeing Boards. Early learning is captured in presentations from workshops in Northamptonshire.

Equality & Diversity

The Equality Act

The Equality Act 2010 came into force in October 2010 bringing together existing equality law into one place so that it is easier to understand and extending protection to some groups so that they are treated more fairly. It provides a new cross-cutting framework which protects individuals from unfair treatment and promotes a fair and more equal society. For the latest information see www.equalities.gov.uk

EM IEP developed six case studies which illustrate the steps local authorities have taken to ensure they were ready for the new legislation. The seven case studies highlight good practice and illustrate transferable good practice for small and large authorities.

Delivering Chances Awards video clips also showcase excellent practice in authorities and other groups in how to provide opportunities to socially excluded adults & young people.