In our recent session, the Independent R&B Discussion Group gathered to examine several pressing topics affecting local government and welfare policy, ranging from Supreme Court rulings to the two-child limit on Universal Credit. With contributions from experienced colleagues including Paul Howarth, Rachael Walker, Kevin Stewart, Thomas Clark, Kirsty Brooksmith, and Sean O’Sullivan, the session offered both practical insights and broader policy reflections.
Equalities Act Ruling: Practical Implications Loom Large
The Supreme Court’s recent clarification on the definition of “sex” under the Equalities Act has triggered significant administrative considerations. While not legislating anew, the Court’s judgment has prompted an urgent need for updated guidance and training, particularly in areas such as single-sex services and employment. Rachel Walker acknowledged the scale of the forthcoming EHRC guidance and the need for public bodies to respond swiftly.
Diversity in Recruitment: Positive Action Under Scrutiny
The session turned to diversity-focused recruitment practices, such as the Rooney Rule. Rachael Walker made a compelling case for such measures, stressing their value in countering entrenched biases and improving representation. Thomas Clark and Kevin Stewart reflected on practical applications across different councils, while Malcolm Gardner noted the shift in public and institutional sentiment over time. The discussion recognised that policy effectiveness can vary with organisational size and HR capacity.
Universal Credit Capital Limits: A Ticking Time Bomb
Recent Resolution Foundation findings highlighted the impact of frozen capital thresholds on Universal Credit eligibility. Paul Howarth and Rachel Walker flagged the contradictions in encouraging savings while penalising them through outdated limits. Rachel warned that highlighting these issues could stoke negative public sentiment, while Tom Clark underscored the operational challenges in verifying complex savings arrangements.
The Two-Child Limit: Scotland Sets the Pace
One of the most passionate exchanges focused on the two-child limit in Universal Credit. Rachel Walker described it as a “deeply feminist issue” and a policy she would scrap immediately, highlighting Scotland’s divergence as a natural experiment in reducing child poverty. While Paul Howarth and Kevin Stewart acknowledged the fiscal and political constraints, the consensus was that alternative measures fall short of addressing the underlying harm. Malcolm Gardner stressed the potential long-term savings from improved health and education outcomes.
Councillors in Council Tax Arrears: Trust and Transparency at Stake
The group also tackled recent media revelations about councillors in arrears. As Tom Clark and Kirsty Brooksmith pointed out, robust procedures and leadership are essential to maintain public confidence. Sean O’Sullivan reminded the group that voting while in arrears is a legal offence with potentially serious consequences, reinforcing the importance of rigorous monitoring.
Conclusion
As ever, our discussion highlighted the fine balance between legal compliance, financial sustainability, and social equity. While immediate reforms may be constrained by budgetary realities, the cumulative voices from across the sector demonstrate a deep commitment to fairness and operational integrity.
We reconvene after the May Bank Holiday. Until then, thanks to all who contributed so thoughtfully to this session.
Files, reports and tables to be downloaded
Please note that the handout contains additional slides covering other items of interest in the news and job adverts, which are provided in partnership with Business Smart Solutions (https://www.businesssmartsolutions.co.uk/).