Women with diverse communication support needs
Facing a double-edged sword

Engender’s Equality Counting project is about promoting good practice in using the equalities duties and addressing issues such as the double-edged sword of discrimination faced by women with diverse communication support needs.

Right to voice

Women have a right to have their voices heard by policy/decision makers, for example in local authorities, health services or any other statutory service.  The objective is to achieve public policy and practice that responds effectively and appropriately to their particular need.

This is true for all women including those with diverse communication support needs who are represented across age and interest groups.  They may face barriers to expressing their views.  

It is vitally important that service providers understand how to support people to participate and put resources in place so they are on an equal footing in society.  Groups working with equalities issues need to lead by example and understand the value and importance of inclusive communication and work to promote it across our organisations and through the work that we do. 

Double discrimination

The Scottish Government has a strong commitment to mainstreaming gender equality and the Equalities Unit has a key role in providing other departments with the relevant guidance. 

However, over the last two years, responsibilities have been passed down to local government without adequate resources, and now we see essential services being cut.  This is having a particular impact on women as research has shown that more women than men use public services.

As both a cause and consequence of gender inequality many women find it hard to speak up about issues they feel strongly about.   For women with diverse communication support needs the result is a ‘double discrimination’.

Taking the time and getting it right

Mainstreaming equalities is a long-term process.  Researchers, policy makers and those delivering services should take account of and reflect the diverse needs of the population in Scotland through service design and delivery. 

Prior to developing policy, Equality Impact Assessments must take place.  Such assessments should include proper consideration of, involvement and consultation with women and men with diverse communication support needs.  This cannot be a ‘tick-box’ exercise and the ‘one-size-fits-all’ approach will not work. 

Those involved, in planning the delivery of services, need to understand both the mix of people within their area, and how that mix is changing.  They must beware of stereotyping and anticipating needs.  Real and meaningful dialogue must take place and procedures put in place for this to be ongoing as appropriate.

The benefits are for all

We recognise that working with a diverse range of groups will improve Engender’s own capacity to serve women in Scotland.  Our policy work will be grounded in the real experiences of women managing the consequences of their multiple/intersecting identities.

A more inclusive and equal Scotland makes for a better Scotland for everyone. 

Produced by Carol Flack (Projects Director, Engender)

September 2010

www.engender.org.uk 

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