1. INTRODUCTION
1.1 The Executive as an administration is committed to tackling inequality and disadvantage and promoting equality of opportunity for all. We want to be an exemplar both as an employer and as an organisation whose policies impact on the day to day lives of everyone in Scotland.
1.2 We see our race equality scheme as an important step in the continuation of a process already set in train.
Scheme Structure
1.3 After briefly outlining what the Scottish Executive does, our Race Equality Scheme provides an overview of some of the key aspects of our promotion of equality, highlighting the fact that we already have put in place systems and structures that support the mainstreaming of equality.
1.4 The scheme then goes on to outline the legislative context for what we are expected to do to promote race equality and tackle discrimination. This is followed by a systematic appraisal of how we will apply the specific legislative duties on race equality.
1.5 The scheme also sets out what core Executive departments have done and are doing to promote race equality.
1.6 Finally, and importantly, our scheme also comprises an electronic/web based section i.e. a Race Equality Assessment/Action Database. The database records a range of information on Executive policies and initiatives, including whether they are relevant to race equality, if they have been screened for their impact or potential impact on the promotion of race equality, the outcome of race equality impact assessments, action to be taken to remedy any adverse impact identified, and other work being undertaken on race equality in that area.
Consultation
1.7 We are keen to engage with all those who are affected by the scheme or have an interest in it. We want to know what you think about how we are promoting race equality across our organisation. In doing so, we will give serious consideration to how you think we could do things better.
1.8 We will be working with our partners to identify the best ways we can take forward the effective practical implementation of the scheme. This may well take the form of seminars, conferences and consultation.
1.9 We would welcome your thoughts on this scheme. Please send these to: Rhona Carr, Development Department, Equality Unit, 2-F Victoria Quay, Edinburgh, EH6 6QQ, or e-mail to rhona.carr@scotland.gsi.gov.uk