1. What are the main aims purpose and outcomes of the Policy and how do these fit with the wider aims of the organization?

The aim of the Communications and Engagement Strategy is to inform, listen and engage with our stakeholders so that they will have a clear understanding and a positive perception of our vision, aims, values, services and achievements, leading to higher levels of satisfaction and engagement.

2. How do these aims affect our duty to:

·           Eliminate unlawful discrimination, harassment and victimization and other conduct prohibited by the act.

·           Advance equality of opportunity between people who share a protected characteristic and those who do not.

·           Foster good relations between people who share a protected characteristic and those who do not.

Our policy is to use appropriate communication channels and engagement activities in order to reach all stakeholders regardless of protected characteristics.  We ensure this in a number of ways:

• Our website is AA compliant and can be accessed by people with disabilities.
• All documents include a statement that they are available in alternative formats.
• The website includes a language translator. 
• The Council subscribes to ‘language line’ to provide a telephone translation service for officers and customers.
• The Council’s distribution list for new releases includes media organisations for targeted groups.
• The Council’s consultation tool kit directs officers to consider hard to reach groups and appropriate methods to engage with all sections of the community.
• Consultation and engagement events are held at appropriate venues and times so we do not discriminate.
• Voluntary Action Maidstone operates an Older Persons Forum on behalf of the Council.

3. What aspects of the policy including how it is delivered or accessed could contribute to inequality?

None.

4. Will the policy have an impact (positive or negative) upon the lives of people, including particular communities and groups who have protected characteristics? What evidence do you have for this?

The review maintains existing safeguards, set out in 2 above, introduced in 2009.