The Role of Equality Reps

The primary role of the Equality Rep is to advise the Local Association/Further Education or Higher Education Branch, and to engage with and support members on equality issues, as well as taking forward the equality agenda as a whole in the workplace.

Equality Reps are not required to undertake casework or represent members although they may provide support and advice to EIS Reps undertaking that role.

Reps are approved by their Local Associations / FE or HE branches, and are required to adhere to the policies, rules and regulations of the EIS. 

EIS Equality Reps work in both primary and secondary schools within local authority areas, and within Further Education and Higher Education establishments or Branches.

Supporting Colleagues on Equality issues

Equality Reps play an active and supportive role within their Local Association/ Branch, for example, by:

• Offering advice to members on equality legislation as it relates to discrimination, harassment, victimisation, reasonable adjustment and positive action

• Advising on equality issues at Local Association/Branch meetings

• Providing information and advice to Local Association/Branch officials involved in negotiations related to equality issues.

Developing the Equality Agenda

Another important responsibility of Equality Reps is to assist in the development of an equality agenda at local authority and/or establishment level, and in devising a strategy for its promotion. In doing so, Equality Reps:

• Consult with colleagues on equality issues and gather information to support the development of an equality strategy

• Actively contribute to the creation of equality strategy at local authority and/or establishment level on a collegiate basis

• Monitor the implementation of and review local strategies and policies designed to promote equality.

• Discuss equality issues, as well as resources and examples of good practice addressing the equality agenda, with the local authority/college Equality Officer and other EIS Equality Reps

• Promote equality issues through organised meetings and discussion groups, writing articles for newsletters and websites, making use of electronic media and notices, and distributing other relevant EIS/LA information

• Keep colleagues up-to-date on the progress and results of any equality initiatives that the EIS is supporting

• Provide training on equality issues to Local Association/Branch members

• Provide information and advice to Local Association/Branch on equality impact assessments and equality outcomes.

Training of Equality Reps

In addition to ongoing support from our Equality Department, the EIS provides full TUC training for Equality Reps on existing equality legislation and how it applies in the workplace.

How to Get Involved

If you are committed to the equality agenda, are considering taking up this highly interesting, valuable role within the EIS and would like more information, please contact Selma Augestad, National Officer Education and Equality on 0131 225 6244 or saugestad@eis.org.uk.