Guidance on The Public Sector Equality Duty for Councillors and Elected Members

Last Updated
13 August 2026
Source
The Improvement Service (with content prepared by the Equality and Human Rights Commission Scotland)

Resource Tags

Content Types:

Guidance

Relevant Driver(s):

1. Strengthening leadership 2. Developing accountability and transparency 3. Ensuring effective regulatory and policy environment

Specific Action(s):

1D. Ensure compliance with legal obligations 2D. Report on progress regularly 3A. Understand legal obligations

Implementation Levels:

Foundation

Prior Knowledge Required:

Basic

Organisation Size:

Large Medium Small

Sector:

Government Local authorities

Role:

Board Members Policy Officers/Makers Senior Leaders/Management

PSED Needs:

Advance equality of opportunity Eliminate discrimination Foster good relations

Resource content

A briefing note produced by the Equality and Human Rights Commission Scotland for elected members of local authorities. Explains what the Public Sector Equality Duty (PSED) requires, including the three general equality needs and the Scottish specific duties. Covers elected members’ scrutiny and leadership roles, equality impact assessment, mainstreaming, and equality outcomes, with practical examples throughout.

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