EHRC 1819-12 Socio-Economic Duty Research

The aim of this research project is to improve our knowledge and evidence base about the way in which local authorities in England are considering socio-economic disadvantage as part of their strategic planning. Local authorities may use different language, for example: fairness, inclusive growth, impact assessment, equality budgeting, economic disadvantage or exclusion.

It will be important to look broadly at such plans to assess whether the final goals are aimed at addressing socio-economic disadvantage (even if this is not a stated objective) and to identify terminology that local authorities can relate to. The research will: • Provide indicative evidence of the number and range of local authorities in England building socio-economic disadvantage into their strategic and other planning. • Produce case studies to demonstrate different approaches and highlight good practice. • Identify opportunities for peer learning among local authorities throughout the course of the research project.

We plan to launch the research report early in 2019 at an event targeting local authorities in England, and potentially Scotland and Wales, with the involvement of the successful contractor(s). Using the research findings and case studies, we hope to develop guidance for local authorities to help them to build addressing socio-economic disadvantage into their planning and decision-making. Development of the guidance will be separate to this research project.