Some of the local characteristics of Barrow mean that some of
the equality problems are not the same as problems in other areas.
For example:
- Barrow Borough is a densely populated area and therefore
more urban than other districts in the County
- A significant proportion of people in the
Borough live in areas of very high deprivation
- We are very reliant on public sector funding for major
employers such as BAE, the Health Service and the Local
Government
- We have high levels of health inequality, resulting in lower
life expectancy and higher levels of disability and long term
limiting conditions, than in other areas of the County.
These things mean that some of the most key equality challenges
in the area are:
- reducing inequalities in the standard of living within the
Borough, and between the Borough and elsewhere
- raising the aspirations of residents, and especially young
people, in relation to health, education and careers
- engaging communities to ensure we address their needs.
- making sure our services are fair and equitable and do not
unlawfully discriminate against people
To address these equality challenges we:
- work closely with the local partners to deliver the
Sustainable Community Strategy, which aims to tackle inequality in
the Borough and promote a better quality of life for everyone
- are tailoring our services more carefully by reviewing the way
we assess the impact of what we do for people who are protected by
equality legislation or are at an unfair disadvantage
- are supporting development of Furness Equality and Diversity Partnership - an
independent forum of local groups and agencies working
to promote equality and diversity and advise both us and our
partners
